Catch22 (Dawes Unit) · 2017
This report examines the links between young people's use of social media and serious youth violence in the UK. It finds that a small minority of young people are exposed daily to content on platforms like Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat and Instagram that displays or incites real-life violence, and that social media is acting as a catalyst for retaliatory violence by amplifying disrespect and threats. Key findings include concerns about drill music videos inciting violence, the vulnerability of young women to exploitation, and a lack of guidance and training for professionals. The report makes recommendations across prevention, intervention and suppression strategies for a range of stakeholders including social media platforms, police, and youth workers.