Analyzing Crime Discourse in U.S. Metropolitan Communities on Reddit: Trends, Influences, and Insights

The relationship between crime and the media has long been a focal point of academic research, with traditional media playing a significant role in shaping public perceptions of safety and community well-being. However, the advent of social media has introduced a new dimension to this discourse, offering unique platforms for user-driven discussions. Despite the prominence of social media, research examining its impact on crime-related discourse remains limited. This paper investigates crime-related discussions across Reddit communities representing 384 Metropolitan Areas in the United States. By analyzing user submissions, we identify key trends in crime discourse, including the higher prevalence of such discussions in larger metropolitan areas and communities with more liberal political leanings. Interestingly, we find that reported crime rates do not strongly influence the frequency or intensity of these discussions. These findings provide novel insights into how social media platforms, like Reddit, shape public narratives around crime, highlighting the growing need to examine digital spaces as influential mediators of public perception.