Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

1-1-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.C.J. in Criminal Justice

First Advisor

Rachel L. Greenspan

Second Advisor

Abigail Novak

Third Advisor

Brian B. Boutwell

Relational Format

dissertation/thesis

Abstract

Although podcasts as a whole are growing in popularity, the true crime genre of podcasts continues to be especially popular, particularly with female listeners. The unique intersection of informational and entertainment goals associated with true crime podcasts raises ethical questions about how these priorities should be balanced. This study focused on learning more about listeners’ motivations, habits, and perceptions via an online survey. Additionally, it explored the gendered nature of true crime podcast consumption. A total of N = 657 participants completed the survey providing information about why they listen to true crime podcasts, how often they listen, and how they feel about the potential positive and negative impacts. Overall, results showed that entertainment goals were more relevant to participants’ motivation for listening rather than informational goals. Additionally, results indicated slight differences between male, female, and nonbinary participants’ listening motivations and perceptions of the potential negative impacts of true crime podcasts.

Available for download on Wednesday, October 07, 2026

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