Mexico's Drug-Related Violence

This book explores and explains how traditional and alternative media have framed the issues of gun trafficking into Mexico, drug-related violence, and spillover violence. It reveals how gun trafficking and drug-related violence are social problems for Mexico, while spillover violence is portrayed as a moral panic for the US. Readers will gain a better understanding of how the media portrays and frames the criminal activity that is occurring in Mexico and how it impacts the US.

Format: Hardback
Length: 158 pages
Publication date: 10 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of how traditional and alternative media have portrayed and framed the pressing issues of gun trafficking into Mexico, drug-related violence, and spillover violence. It unveils the profound societal implications of gun trafficking and drug-related violence in Mexico, while simultaneously portraying spillover violence as a moral panic for the United States. By examining national newspapers from both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border, including The New York Times and El Universal, the book employs a theoretical framework encompassing moral panics, social problems, and cultivation theory to analyze the media's portrayal and framing of criminal activity in Mexico.

Through its in-depth analysis, the book identifies six distinct framing devices employed by The New York Times and El Universal to discuss and frame the issue of gun trafficking into Mexico and its profound impact on border violence in Mexico. These framing devices include the blame game, the distinction between worthy and unworthy victims, highlighting positive aspects, emphasizing negative aspects of gun trafficking, employing indirect references to gun trafficking, and making direct mentions of gun trafficking.

This book is a valuable resource for students and scholars engaged in the study of media and crime, as well as those researching the intricate dynamics of drug cartels and drug-related violence. It offers a comprehensive understanding of how the media shapes public perception and influences policy decisions, shedding light on the complex relationships between Mexico, the United States, and the global media landscape. By exploring the nuances of media coverage and framing, this book contributes to a deeper comprehension of the multifaceted challenges facing Mexico and the broader region.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367752736