It is often thought that the increase in juvenile crime can be attributed to violence in the media.
Do you agree that this is the main cause of juvenile crime?
What solutions can you offer to deal with this situation?
Answers
Answer:
Media is the most important factor that has caused a sharp increase in juvenile crime. There are numerous other factors, but the main responsibility lies with the media.
In this age of digitization, information sharing has become extremely important. Media houses try their best to get to the ‘truth’ and in the process of doing that, they often print and broadcast content that is laced with violence and communal hatred, poisoning the young minds of many youths. The newspaper on any given day contains news items related to these categories.
On the individual front too, people are involved in sharing videos over social media. They often forget to consider the content of what they are sharing and tend to promote violence indirectly. That is why the government often blocks internet connectivity in troubled areas where there are chances of violence and clashes, to avoid further violence and fueling of ill will towards others. Also, the internet is full of ‘hacks’ , even for committing crimes. Youths with too much time on their hands, often end up surfing such sites.
Society needs to deal with the situation in its totality. The government should set strict guidelines for media houses to follow, regarding the content they air or print. Violent content could be restricted to a few hours late at night. Similarly, hacks that can be misused should be shared with caution. The publishers need to be accountable for the content they post.
Schools and parents need to play an active role in monitoring what the children are exposed to, both on TV and on personal devices. They need to be keep an eye out for anything that is amiss and take steps to get suitable assistance for the child. Sometimes all children need is someone to hear them out. It relieves frustration, helps them fight depression and keeps them away from the criminal life.
Celebrities who are also role models, need to actively engage with children and motivate them the right way. Children are easily swayed by what these people do on screen. It is important for them to hear the celebrities talk about the difference between reel and real life.
The media which is blamed for instigating juvenile criminals is also the means through which the trend can be reversed. The only difference is what role the media chooses to play and what we as responsible citizens allow the media to do.