Scholar Finds Continuing Racial Disparity in Media Coverage of Missing Women

A new study by Mia Moody, an assistant professor of journalism and media arts at Baylor University, finds a significant racial disparity in media coverage for women who have been reported missing. Professor Moody’s research shows that mainstream media outlets were more likely to report on a missing woman if she was white, wealthy, or physically attractive. Women who were black, poor, or overweight were less likely to receive media attention.

Professor Moody notes that the lack of coverage for missing black women is an important issue. Media attention can often result in the assignment of more investigative resources by local and state law enforcement agencies. Also, media attention often results in more support from the community for victims and families of the missing women.