UK Anxiety Index – The Riots: Young people hold the harshest views on rioting

//1 September 2011
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Anger, shock and disgust. These were the most common initial reactions to the riots that took place in London and across the UK in early August, but it may come as a surprise to discover that some of the harshest judgements on the rioting come from young people themselves, according to a survey conducted by JWT London.

When asked about the riots and their feelings towards young people in their own community, sympathy levels were lowest among 18-34 year olds. Just 28% said that they worry for other young people, compared with 52% of the over 50s. Young people are also championing harsher penalties for their rioting peers, with 43% suggesting that the punishments of those convicted were not harsh enough, compared to 34% of the overall population.

And after the media hype about the role that social networks played in organising the riots, 64% of young people agree that social networks should be restricted in the future to prevent them being used in a negative way.

To view the full findings and release click here.