Dehumanizing Murder Trauma in True Crime Podcasts: Investigating Representations of Black Women

Abstract

This thesis explores the portrayal of Black women in true crime podcasts, with a specific focus on how these media narratives often perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to the dehumanization of marginalized victims. Using framing theory as a foundation, the research investigates five popular true crime podcasts, analyzing the language, narrative techniques, and framing devices used to depict cases involving Black women. Through qualitative textual analysis, this study identifies recurring themes of victim-blaming, sensationalism, and the reinforcement of negative racial tropes. By focusing on the intersection of race and gender, the research highlights the ways in which true crime media underrepresents or misrepresents Black women, often framing them through lenses that diminish their humanity and complexity. Additionally, the study examines the use of sound and narrative style in shaping audience perceptions, emphasizing how auditory cues contribute to the dramatization of violence. The findings reveal a troubling pattern of media bias, demonstrating the need for more ethical and equitable portrayals of marginalized victims. This thesis contributes to broader discussions about media representation, racial and gender biases, and the role of podcasting in shaping public perceptions of crime and justice.