Labelling approach e ato infracional: o impacto da mídia no etiquetamento social do adolescente infrator e seus efeitos no sistema de justiça brasileiro

Abstract

The media serves as a powerful channel for shaping social perceptions, particularly regarding sensitive issues such as pratictice of criminal acts. In Brazil, the portrayal of juvenile offenders in the media is often saturated with sensationalism and prejudice, leading to the formation of social labels that can have profound implications for these individuals. This paper aims to explore the role of media representation in influencing public perceptions of juvenile offenders, behavior and, consequently, the construction of social labels within the Ludovician social contexto, as well as the far reaching consequences of these labels on the lives of affected youth. Methodologically, a literature review was conducted, based on the theoretical frameworks of the research. By examining these interconnected factors, we can better understand how media narratives not only reflect but also shape social attitudes and the justice system's approach to juvenile offenders in Brazil. The influence of media representation on public perception of juvenile offenders is profound and often harmful, particularly due to the sensationalist tendencies displayed in journalistic coverage. Media sensationalism refers to the practice of emphasizing shocking or dramatic events to capture the public's attention, often at the expense of accuracy and context. In Brazil, stories involving juvenile offenders are frequently portrayed in a way that exaggerates their actions, contributing to a narrative that frames them as inherently dangerous or morally deviant. For example, coverage of violent crimes committed by youth often overlooks systemic issues such as poverty, lack of education, and limited access to mental health resources. It is concluded, therefore, that the emphasis given by the media to reports on the behavior of adolescents in conflict with the law compromises the guarantee of comprehensive protection to these individuals in the developmental stage and undermines the possibility of restructuring and social reintegration.