​

The digital world has become an increasingly influential arena shaping youth behaviour, with significant implications for aggression, criminality, and radicalisation. Recent research highlights a direct link between exposure to violent or antisocial online content and subsequent aggressive or delinquent behaviour.

Qiu et al. (2024) identified a strong association between high exposure to antisocial media content and increased participation in malicious online behaviours, such as trolling. This relationship is mediated by hostile attribution bias—the tendency to interpret others’ actions as threatening—and moderated by individual empathy levels. Similarly, Oshodi (2024) found a correlation between violent media consumption on platforms such as TikTok and heightened aggressive behaviours among adolescents, suggesting that online content consumption can translate into real-world aggression.

​

The effects of violent media exposure are further evidenced by neurological studies. Kelly, Grinband, and Hirsch (2007) demonstrated that individuals repeatedly exposed to violent media exhibited diminished responses in brain regions responsible for emotional regulation and inhibitory control, potentially leading to increased reactive aggression. The American Academy of Pediatrics (2009) reported that extensive exposure to media violence is linked not only to aggressive behaviour but also to desensitisation, nightmares, and increased fearfulness.

​

Beyond general violent content, online platforms—including gaming environments—have become fertile grounds for radicalisation. MacKinnon and McLuhan (2019) show how extremist recruiters exploit these spaces to foster a sense of community and belonging, initially presenting themselves as supportive peers before gradually introducing violent or hateful ideologies. The anonymity and immersive nature of these digital spaces can amplify the impact, making young users more vulnerable to extremist influence.

​

Furthermore, the time young people spend online is often a consequence of social isolation, particularly when coupled with educational disruption (Kuss & Griffiths, 2017). This increased digital presence elevates exposure to harmful content, including extremist narratives, which thrive in online ecosystems that lack effective oversight.

​

To address these challenges, interventions must go beyond simple content moderation. Enhancing digital literacy, fostering empathy, and supporting emotional regulation are key strategies to reduce vulnerability. Schools, families, and policymakers must work collaboratively to create safe, supportive online and offline environments for young people.

​

​

References

American Academy of Pediatrics, 2009. Media Violence. Pediatrics, 124(5), pp.1495–1503.

Kelly, C.R., Grinband, J. & Hirsch, J., 2007. Repeated Exposure to Media Violence is Associated with Diminished Response in Brain Regions Involved in Evaluating Emotional Stimuli. Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 19(3), pp.516–528.

Kuss, D.J. & Griffiths, M.D., 2017. Adolescent Social Media Addiction (Revisited). Education and Health, 35, pp.59–62.

MacKinnon, R. & McLuhan, S., 2019. Radicalisation in Gaming Communities: An Emerging Challenge. Journal of Cybersecurity and Society, 4(1), pp.45–62.

Oshodi, O., 2024. The Impact of TikTok Content on Adolescent Aggression in the UK. London: Institute for Digital Behaviour Studies.

Qiu, L., Zhang, J., Wang, Y. & Sun, X., 2024. Antisocial Media Exposure and Online Aggression: The Role of Empathy and Hostile Attribution Bias. Cyberpsychology: Journal of Psychosocial Research on Cyberspace, 18(1), pp.1–12.