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The Bridgend suicides may, in part, be related to how the media handled this news story. I think
that tabloid newspapers and many television newscasts have a truly problematic fascination with
sensational stories. If kids were, in fact, contemplating suicide, due to a suicide pact of some
sort (a possibility that local Welsh authorities are investigating) then this much media attention
may have given some of these kids that last, essential push. Some people seek attention and the
media very often offers this.
Just take a look at how the US media covers school shootings, which are becoming increasingly
frequent in America. The excessive and sensational focus on the shooter and on the whole situation
is truly unnecessary and it may only convince other students contemplating similar crimes to go
ahead.
Some news organizations have been more responsible in their reporting of the Bridgend suicides. The
BBC, for example, avoided sensationalism and even invited a local MP to talk about what role the
media may have played in all of this. |
21 Feb 2008 12:11
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