Social media: A potential powder keg of violence

02 Mar Social media: A potential powder keg of violence

People have always formed into groups of like-minded people; however, the introduction of social media has enabled us to connect in ways never witnessed before. These newfound associations can create positive coalitions; nonetheless, the internet has also allowed those with malicious intent to form unanimous tribes, encouraging and supporting each other with back-slapping echo chambers and algorithmically driven hashtags. Affirming a feeling of self-worth, belonging and identity.

According to a recent government report on knife crime statistics, ‘in the year ending March 2022, there were around 45,000 offences involving a knife or sharp instrument in England and Wales (excluding Greater Manchester Police Force). This was 9% higher than in 2020/21 and 34% higher than in 2010/11.’ Considering the disruption to social interaction caused by the pandemic, those involved in countering violent crime will undoubtedly be eagerly awaiting the statistics for 2022/23. Multiple factors are attributed to the rise in crime; for example, mental health issues, socioeconomic deprivation or the success or failure of the controversial stop-and-search laws. However, while there are limited studies into the relationship between increases in criminal offences and social media, the symbiotic relationship between social media popularity and the rise in violent crime is hard to ignore.

Different social media platforms appeared on smartphones at separate times, Instagram

arrived in 2010, hitting 100 million monthly active users in 2013. In 2023, swipe into TikTok or Instagram, and the glamorisation of violent crime is evident. According to the Crown Prosecution Service, ‘Images which show young people brandishing dangerous weapons and posts glorifying violent offending such as serious wounding and murder is being used as evidence in court cases related to gang offending.’ The speed and reach of social media mean that disputes can escalate quickly on digital platforms, encouraging individuals to conduct impulsive threats and the filming and sharing of crimes in faceless forums. From county lines, radicalisation, and gang recruitment to purchasing knives, there is sufficient evidence that social media has, in specific cases, facilitated the promotion and execution of brutal crimes. With a quick search, it is easy on Instagram to find a selection of people selling knives. Attached to images of daggers, flick-knives, and machetes, there are multiple comments such as, “this is the way, that thing is screaming sharp for sure, nice hollow grind, stunning eye candy, or beautiful stunner.” While I may not be able to confirm if some of those commenting are indeed Michelin star chefs, I am guessing not.

While street violence has always happened, the question remains, is this upsurge in violence real life mirroring social media or social media reflecting real life? Schools are struggling to implement education, posting colourful warnings and helpful hints on their websites, large charities are offering quick stop-help guides to parents, the police are visiting schools, and governments are playing catch-up with tick-box initiatives; however, most of us have realised that we need more of a comprehensive and creative approach to this growing problem. Failing in this task will inevitably lead to more tragic news stories and desperately grieving families and victims. Mainstream education in the UK values science, English and maths above all other subjects labelling them core; however, is it now time to add critical and independent thinking, empathy, and resilience to the national curriculum, debunking social media and its influence on violent crime?