Closing

  After investigating the stereotypes of Criminal Minds found through identities such as race, gender, sexuality along with concepts concerning politics and representation, the portrayal of profiling directly impacts viewers’ outlooks on these topics. The BAU depends on statistics and stereotypes of individuals, which then narrows their scope as to who the unsub(s) could be. By doing so it pushes the idea that these stereotypes are present and correct. Furthermore, the show’s choice of who they portray as victims and suspects can affect public opinion by showing which identities are dangerous or vulnerable. Coupling this with the statements by YouGov on how Criminal Minds is the 9th most popular contemporary TV show, this further increases harmful stigmatization because of the widespread popularity. Despite all this, Criminal Minds does touch upon subjects that are less seen on mainstream television as seen in the politics section. The show does not hold back on showing the reality of the issues that we face everyday such as the unjust nature of socioeconomic disparity. The show’s long-running aspect allowed for more flexibility to include more representation in the main cast as time goes by and demands for representation heighten.