Young people in North Rhine-Westphalia: Violence is increasing – shock study reveals alarming figures!

Young people in North Rhine-Westphalia: Violence is increasing – shock study reveals alarming figures!

A new study by the University of Cologne and the North Rhine-Westphalia State Criminal Police Office, presented by Interior Minister Herbert Reul, sheds worrying light on the development of youth crime in the region. Around 3,800 students in the 7th and 9th grades at 27 schools in Gelsenkirchen, Marl and Herten were examined. The results show an alarming increase in violent crimes among young people, with even children among the suspects. The increase in hatred, attacks on emergency services and knife attacks are clearly documented. [Bild] reports that the influence of social media and the effects of the corona pandemic play a significant role.

Experiences of family violence have increased during the pandemic. The lack of social contacts due to school closures exacerbates the problem. Professor Dr. In this context, Clemens Kroneberg recommends that binding rules should be consistently enforced in schools. Another serious problem: The police and the judiciary feel powerless when it comes to holding children under the age of 14 responsible because they are not responsible for criminal offenses.

Changes in crime statistics

The increase in juvenile crime among students with a migrant background is particularly alarming. While registered crimes among German children aged 11 to 13 fell by 17% between 2013 and 2024, the number of crimes among migrant students rose by an incredible 628%. The increase in violent crime among foreign-born seventh graders is particularly stark, increasing by 2,325%. These figures show that there is a need for action here.

While the statistics are worrying, as [Welt] notes, the role of social media in this context cannot be underestimated. A study reports that teenagers bully each other and such incidents are often shared on social media. Criminologist Christian Pfeiffer explains that social media can trigger personality crises, but the exact impact on juvenile crime remains unclear. An incident in Hamburg shows how quickly a situation among young people can escalate. Hundreds followed an announcement on social media promising clothing that ultimately wasn't distributed — an example of the dangers posed by this digital connectivity.

Anxiety and depression among girls

Also notable is the increase in anxiety and depression among girls, which is linked to violent crime. In Gelsenkirchen, Marl and Herten, crimes among girls under 14 years of age rose by almost 150%, while among boys the increase was 104%. A possible explanation for this could be that girls are increasingly more open about their aggression, which could be interpreted as equality.

The current results should make us all think. It is necessary to think about social media and consider how these platforms can be used wisely and regulated at the same time. The demands for a school subject on how to use social media are becoming increasingly important in this context. Kettemann also demands that online platforms have to take on more responsibility. Parents are required to support their children in using digital media. We urgently need an open discussion about the causes and solutions to these worrying trends in juvenile crime.