Psychological, Social and Informational Aspects of Attacks by Minors on Educational Institutions

Abstract

The article examines the factors influencing the attacks by minors on educational institutions. The analysis of publications offering explanations and theoretical models of such crimes is performed. The authors present the results of their own qualitative analysis of data from an empirical study of 9 teenagers who attacked schools, and materials of criminal cases. The analysis is performed as part of a comprehensive forensic psychological and psychiatric examination. The data indicate the specific personality structure of adolescents and their existing mental disorders, as well as their special socio-psychological status in the classroom as outcasts and isolated. A compensatory mechanism of identity development is described with a focus on the role model of teenagers who attacked the Columbine school in the United States, and who imitated their actions. The role of the Internet in this process is evaluated. It is concluded that there is a need for a multidimensional analysis of such actions and appropriate preventive work.