Date of Conferral
8-1-2024
Date of Award
August 2024
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Psychology
Advisor
Jana Price-Sharps
Abstract
The focus of this research was to understand what type of influence media sources have on the public’s perception of police. To conduct this quantitative research, a survey was distributed to approximately 200 participants who were 21 years of age or older, U.S. citizens, and watched the news regularly or had some interaction with law enforcement. The survey distributed on Survey Monkey included questions pertaining to media consumption and perception of police. The theoretical foundations applied within this research were Gerbner’s cultivation theory, social cognitive theory of mass communication, social procedural justice theory, and social exchange theory. Results reflected that a relationship exists between media source types and publics’ perception of police. In addition, a secondary analysis was conducted to control for age. More specifically, the public’s perception of police and the media content consumed from television and social media were influenced differently. Participants who primarily used social media sites to obtain their news had a more negative perception of police compared to those who primarily watched television news. Additionally, results reflected that when individuals become older, they have a more positive perception of police. By bringing individuals’ attention to the effects of social media and single sources of news, the public, law enforcement, and researchers can better understand the public’s perceptions of law enforcement. The results of this study can be used for positive social change by strengthening the relationship and creating a better understanding between the public and law enforcement.
Recommended Citation
Mancilla, Rio, "Is there a Relationship Between Media Sources and Public’s Perception on Police?" (2024). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 16262.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/16262
