No Links Seen Between Tv And Delinquency (Press, 12 April 1961)

A study by British psychiatrist Professor T. C. N. Gibbens, published by the World Health Organisation in Geneva on 12 April 1961, examines the trends in juvenile delinquency and the potential influence of media. Professor Gibbens asserts that while television, radio, newspapers, and films are often blamed for rising crime and violence, there is insufficient evidence to support the idea that they serve as direct motives for juvenile offences. Instead, he argues they may influence the types of offences but do not necessarily increase viewers' aggression levels. The paper challenges popular beliefs that violent media results in heightened aggression among viewers, stating that the effects of media on behaviour are complex and not easily quantified. Gibbens suggests that conventional representations of violence, such as those seen in Westerns, arouse little anxiety in audiences, implying that a shift towards more realistic portrayals of violence may have different effects on youth, who might accept it as a norm. Gibbens also analyses the rise in sexual offences among juveniles, highlighting that while the overall increase in these crimes is notable, the prevalence among younger offenders, specifically those under 21, is significant. He indicates a concerning rise in homosexual offences, attributing this partly to under-reporting of such crimes and suggesting that young males are disproportionately involved in heterosexual offences. Further, the commentary discusses issues of alcoholism and drug addiction. In Europe, Gibbens notes a relative stability in concerns over these issues, although the UK has observed an increase in drunkenness, particularly among young adults. The study reflects on delinquency being predominantly a male issue, with girls being less visible in juvenile justice systems but potentially more troubled in adulthood, as their grievances may remain unaddressed until they manifest in problematic behaviour during adolescence. Professor Gibbens identifies the need for preventative measures, stressing that addressing boys' delinquency will not sufficiently tackle issues faced by girls, who may appear untroubled but carry unresolved tensions into later life. He also points out an increasing public concern regarding the situation of young girls, noting that even if prostitution levels remain stable, issues such as 'near-prostitution' raise alarms. Overall, Gibbens' findings suggest that while media may play a role in shaping the landscape of juvenile delinquency, it is not a straightforward cause of increased aggression or crime. Instead, he highlights the importance of understanding complex social dynamics and the varying trajectories of young offenders.

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