| This study examines the media's coverage of crime victims from relevant ethical and legal perspectives in order to propose guidelines and to facilitate discussion concerning media coverage that balances the needs of the victims, the public and the media.; In order to provide relevant historical and sociological backgrounds, the study examines the rise of the crime victims' movement in America, particularly the role of media attention in promoting awareness of crime victims' rights, public education and resulting federal and state legislation. The study also examines the history of media crime reporting in America, particularly in regard to crime victims.; From an ethical perspective, this study examines the need for an ethical balance in media coverage of crime victims. In studying the concerns of various sides—the media, the victims, and society—and applying appropriate approaches drawn from five significant ethical philosophies and principles (Utilitarian, Kant's Categorical Imperative, Rawls Veil of Ignorance, Communitarian and Libertarian), the paper proposes ethical standards for such coverage.; From a legal perspective, this study considers the relevant legal case history and potential media liabilities in newsgathering and publication concerning crime victims, including newsgathering torts (trespass, fraud, intrusion), privacy and negligence, balanced against First Amendment protections and defenses, such as newsworthiness, public figure status and matters of public record. |
