Bridgetown, Barbados — In a recent statement, President of the Barbados Film & Television Association, Jamal Slocombe, addressed the rising concerns over the influence of violent multimedia content on crime rates in Barbados. Slocombe emphasized the role that early exposure to violent video games and the infiltration of music videos glorifying crime and weapon use have played in fostering aggressive behavior, particularly among young people.
stated Slocombe.“The connection between violent multimedia content and criminal activity cannot be ignored. From an early age, children in Barbados have been exposed to games like Grand Theft Auto and Fortnite, which simulate and glorify violence. This kind of immersive exposure desensitizes them to the real-world consequences of such actions,”
Slocombe further elaborated on the cultural impact of certain genres of music, specifically dancehall. He highlighted how some songs and music videos contribute to the normalization of weapon use and criminal behavior.
“The influence of some dancehall music and its accompanying visuals, which often portray the use of firearms and other forms of violence, has infiltrated our society and shaped the behavior of our youth. This is not speculation—research has consistently shown that these messages have a significant impact on impressionable minds.”
The BFTA President urged policymakers and the wider society to take a closer look at the consumption patterns of the youth and their exposure to these types of media.
“We must be proactive in controlling what our children and young adults are consuming, whether it be video games, television, or music. These forms of media, when unchecked, contribute to the glorification of a violent, lawless lifestyle. Barbados cannot afford to ignore this any longer,” he stated.
In response to these concerns, Slocombe called for stronger measures to regulate media content and foster more positive local productions.
“As a nation, we must prioritize creating and promoting content that reflects positive values, builds community, and discourages violence. The arts and media have the power to influence culture for better or for worse, and it’s our responsibility to steer that influence in the right direction,” he concluded.
The BFTA continues to advocate for the responsible consumption of media and supports the production of local content that uplifts and educates. Slocombe reiterated that solutions must involve collaboration between the government, the creative industries, and parents to effectively counter these negative influences.