The Misrepresentation of Police on the TV Research Paper

The Misrepresentation of Police on the TV - Research Paper Example In many TV programs and shows, police officers are depicted as the front line of defence, as a strong force able to protect all citizens from all possible threats and crimes. Drugs, crime, and threats to the family and to safety generally are the stock-in-trade of these shows. However, programs like "Cops" depict the police as the front line of defence against such threats. "Americas Most Wanted" gives viewers a sense of empowerment as they fight back with telephone calls that help to capture dangerous criminals. There is actual footage of the police in action, breaking down a door in a drug bust, or chasing and wrestling a suspect to the ground. In real life, the police are unable to respond effectively to all reported cases of crimes and check all telephone calls coming each hour (Dowler 230). Also, some are concerned about the guarantee of confidentiality for callers that seemed to be compromised by televised comments identifying them as "neighbours" or "former girlfriends," or gi ving other identifiable characteristics. In real life, the source of scepticism is, for the most part, related to the experience of various forms of contact with the police. In reality, when you do try to help the police, the police never turn up until the crimes been committed. Also, Scharrer (2001) admits that: â€Å"the depiction of previously unemotional cops who were "all business" has changed to include modern sensitivity and more well-rounded portrayals in these roles† (615).