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Blinded by Science

The Social Construction of Reality in Forensic Television Shows and its Effect on Criminal Jury Trials

Marymount University, Arlington, VA, monica.robbers{at}marymount.edu

Using a social construction of reality perspective, this article examines the social distance between popular media depictions of criminal investigations and reality, and the extent to which these depictions influence criminal jury trials. Data were collected from a nationally representative, random sample of trial counsel and judges and was analyzed using qualitative methods. Results indicate there is a great deal of social distance between popular media depictions of criminal investigation and reality. Moreover, jurors appear to have no tools to assess the credibility of forensic testing on television shows or in trials. Furthermore, the social construction of reality on forensic television shows has not only influenced jury decisions but has also affected the ways in which trial counsel and judges do their jobs. Suggestions for further research and discussion of public policy implications are included in the study.

Key Words: criminal trials • CSI • media

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