How does the portrayal of white-collar crime typically differ from street crime?

The characterization of white-collar crime in media and public discourse frequently presents it as less threatening compared to street crime. This stems from the nature of white-collar crimes, which often involve non-violent financial misconduct, fraud, or corruption carried out by individuals or organizations. As these crimes typically lack the immediate physical danger and violence associated with street crime, the societal perception leans toward viewing white-collar offenses as less harmful, both in terms of personal safety and impact on communities.

In comparing the portrayals, street crime is often dramatized to highlight its potential for violence and immediate danger, garnering more sensational media coverage and public attention. Conversely, white-collar crime may receive less media sensationalism, resulting in perceptions that underplay its seriousness despite the significant financial and social consequences it can entail. This differential portrayal contributes to a broader misunderstanding of the severity of white-collar crime, often allowing it to be viewed as more acceptably disparate from the threats posed by street-level offenses.