Science Fictions Paid-only episode 23: Suicide contagion
Oct 7, 2025
This captivating discussion delves into the phenomenon of suicide contagion, exploring the potential for media coverage to influence behavior. The hosts connect seemingly light topics, like streakers in sports, to serious issues of copycat violence. They explain why responsible reporting guidelines exist and how they aim to mitigate risks. The conversation also touches on psychological theories of imitation and raises critical questions about the responsibilities of media in portraying such sensitive subjects.
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Streakers As A Relatable Example
- Tom Chivers uses streakers at football matches as a light, relatable example of contagious behaviour in public settings.
- He contrasts the playful example with how media avoid showing details to prevent imitation of harmful acts.
Media Self-Censor To Reduce Imitation
- Media avoid showing details of rule-breaking or violent acts because they fear others will copy them and imitate the behaviour.
- The hosts link this suppression practice to wider questions about contagion for violence and suicide reporting.
Charlie Kirk Shooting As A Contagion Concern
- Tom brings up the Charlie Kirk shooting as a recent example where commentators feared contagion of imitation violence.
- He notes thankfully it did not trigger wider copycat attacks but shows how contagion concerns surface in high-profile violent events.