What are people using when they overestimate the frequency of violent crimes because such crimes are repeatedly shown in the media

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The availability heuristic is a cognitive shortcut in which people make judgments based on the ease and frequency with which information comes to mind. In this case, because media outlets often heavily emphasize violent crimes, they are more readily available in people's minds, leading them to overestimate how often such crimes occur.

What Are People Using When They Overestimate the Frequency of Violent