media portrayal of prisoners

Media portrayal of prisoners often emphasizes themes of danger, violence, and crime, which can shape public perception of inmates as inherently threatening or morally flawed. Films and news stories tend to highlight extreme cases, neglecting the diversity of experiences and the possibilities for rehabilitation. This depiction can lead to stigmatization, influencing attitudes toward criminal justice policies and reintegration efforts. While some portrayals recognize prisons’ complexities, many focus on sensationalism, impacting societal understanding of incarceration, rehabilitation, and the realities faced by prisoners.