Critical Analysis

1. According to data from the visual above, how many crimes were committed per 100,000 Americans in 2020?

2. According to data from the visual above, how many crimes were committed per 100,000 Americans in 1980?

3. Based on the visual above, what has happened to the American crime rate over the past 40 years?

4. Based on the visual above, and the visual below, describe the gap between actual crime rates and concern over crime.

5. What is the role media plays in this gap?

6. Explain how this gap can impact policy decisions.

7. people what is the Government national crime data have also shown recent increases in the U.S. homicide rate to its highest point in 25 years. According to the data from the graph above, what percent of Americans worry a great deal about crime and violence in 2022?

8. According to the data from the graph above, describe how Americans’ attitudes about crime and violence have changed since 2001?

9. Why do you think so many Americans worry so much about crime and violence?

10. According to the chart below,* how does concern about crime compare to other national issues?

11. According to the data from the graph further below*, describe how demographics impact current attitudes towards crime and violence in the U.S..

12. According to the data from the graph even further below*, describe how partisanship impact attitudes towards crime and violence in the U.S. during different presidencies?

13. Why do you think there is such a high partisan gap in attitudes towards crime and violence and how will that impact the 2022 election?

14. According to the data from the graph furthest below*, how do perceptions and reality about crime rates compare? And how much do you worry about crime and violence?

15. Women have been consistently more worried than men about crime over the course of the 21-year trend. In 2022, women were 10 points higher than men in their level of concern about crime. Why do you think that is?

16. Describe any powers an American president can use to combat crime and violence. And list any federal agencies that combat crime.

Learning Extension

Read the USA Facts report on American crime rates and also the most recent Gallup research on American attitudes towards crime and violence in 2022.

Action Extension

Below you will find a list of the top national issues that worry Americans. Which of these is your top concern? Contact your U.S. House Representative, U.S. Senator, or President and ask them how they plan to tackle your top concern.

Visual Extension*