Major
Criminology and Criminal Justice
Second Major
Psychology
Minor(s)
Third Major: Political Science
Advisor
Farrell, Chelsea Dr.
Advisor Department
Honors Program
Date
4-2025
Keywords
criminology; theory; true-crime; podcast; psychology; criminal justice system
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Abstract
The Criminal Element is an innovative, victim-centered podcast that bridges the gap between criminological theory and real-world criminal cases. The podcast is designed as an educational resource for undergraduate Criminology and Criminal Justice students, alongside general audience members interested in learning more about criminological theory. Through the lens of true crime, this podcast is an engaging exploration of foundational and advanced theories while avoiding sensationalism and exploitation, a prevalent problem among true crime media. Each episode connects criminological theoretical concepts – such as strain, social learning, and social disorganization – to contemporary and historical cases, providing listeners with accessible and multifaceted content. Accessibility is prioritized by creating an audio-based podcast supplemented with transcripts that are available for reading.
The Criminal Element emphasizes an ethical approach, ensuring the narratives respect victims and their families. The podcast transcripts also highlight foundations, national hotlines, and ways to donate to support victim families when applicable. Through prioritizing the voices and experiences of those impacted by the crime, the podcast fosters empathy and critical awareness while maintaining academic rigor and relatable storytelling. This balance promotes a deeper understanding of crime, its social implications, and social justice efforts, inspiring both academic curiosity and critical thinking. Creating this podcast has deepened my understanding of criminological theories and strengthened my research, analytical, and media production skills. I have also grown more confident in synthesizing complex information, crafting transparent and responsible narratives, and engaging with sensitive topics thoughtfully and respectfully.
Media Format
embedly
Additional Media Format
embedly
Included in
Applied Behavior Analysis Commons, Banking and Finance Law Commons, Behavior and Behavior Mechanisms Commons, Biological Psychology Commons, Criminal Law Commons, Criminology Commons, Mental Disorders Commons, Other Psychiatry and Psychology Commons, Personality and Social Contexts Commons, Psychological Phenomena and Processes Commons, Radio Commons, Reading and Language Commons, Social Control, Law, Crime, and Deviance Commons, Social Justice Commons