Shock in Graz: Amo run shakes school - media under fire!

Shock in Graz: Amo run shakes school - media under fire!

On Tuesday, a tragic incident at a school of Graz shaked the nation. A killing spree called for several dead and injured numerous people, which caused the police to secure the situation as quickly as possible and to set up a collection point for relatives. While the investigation ran, the media showered their readers: inside with speculations and disturbing pictures. Bachhausen.de reports that in particular, an FPÖ-close side wanted to tons tons of video material-among other things from a 16-year-old student who should provide exclusive information and videos. These videos, which show seriously injured and the dead, were underlaid with oppressive music, which also gave up the waves of the discussion about media ethics.

incomprehensibly, many such content was also shared by well -known media such as OE24. Later you saw yourself forced to delete the videos and to contest the publication. In the media -ethical debate, vehement criticism becomes sound - not only about the way in which the perpetrator was reported, but also with regard to the violation of the victim and their relatives. As oeaw.ac.at, the challenges of reporting on amoclets are enormous. Responsibility is high to avoid glorification of the perpetrator or possible imitation.

media responsibility and ethical standards

The communication researcher Matthias Karmasin warns of the sensitivity in reporting. "The media should adhere to the instructions of the investigative authorities and only publish secure information," he says, underlining that the naming of names and pictures of the perpetrators is problematic to avoid confusion and unnecessary stress for innocent people. The terrifying incident in Graz should be a request for all media to act responsibly and to draw attention to the victims instead of the actions of the perpetrator.

experts warn that a fatal heroization of the perpetrator could further spark the dangers of imitation offenders. Adolescent psychiatrists emphasize that the identification potential with perpetrators such as the in Graz can draw attention in an unwanted direction. So rumors also spread about the perpetrator's possible bullying and the presence of a farewell letter, which remained completely unconfirmed. This could contribute significantly to the misinformation and increase the pain of the relatives immeasurably, without any solid basis.

insights into the media reflection

A review of past amoclets such as those in Munich shows how strong the media dramaturgical approach is. Literaturkritik.de describes how the reporting on the killing spree of David S. led to an intensive discussion about violent video games and redefined the role of the media in such acts. The central concern remains that amo runs are not treated as a media spectacle, but as serious social problems that need to be understood and prevent.

Overall, it remains important that the media reflect on their role in society and orientate themselves in ethical standards - not only to protect the trust of the population, but also to do justice to the injustice that has happened to the victims. This is the only way to start a constructive discussion about prevention and the suffering of those affected.