Final answer:
True, crime rates often increase with urbanization and mass tourism due to factors like organized crime networks and gang activity, but media portrayal may lead to exaggerated public fears.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question presents a claim that crime rates typically increase with the growth and urbanization of an area, and specifically, that the growth of mass tourism is often accompanied by an increase in crime. This statement is generally true, as various factors contribute to this trend.
For instance, deteriorating economic conditions can lead to violence and the formation of organized crime networks involved in activities such as drug smuggling and money laundering. Additionally, crime rates vary by location, often influenced by factors like income inequality, lack of opportunity, racism, poverty, poor schooling, gang activity, and substance abuse.
Although there are patterns of increased crime associated with urbanization and tourism, public perception of crime is often higher than the reality, partly due to media portrayal of crime and sensationalism in news reporting.
Moreover, despite perceptions that crime rates are increasing, data has shown a decline in violent and gun-related crimes since the early 1990s in some regions, including the United States. Therefore, while there might be an association between urban growth, mass tourism, and crime, it is important to consider the complexities and regional variations in crime rates and public perception.