Warning Signs
How to spot someone turning to hate?
Hate does not just happen. Hate is something that grows.
Common Risks for turning to hate
There is not one path that leads someone to commit an act of hate-based violence. But there are some common risks that people who turn to hate might share:
Grievances
A grievance is a real or imagined wrong. Grievances often develop when someone feels treated unfairly or excluded. A grievance can grow into a feeling of resentment or even hate towards a specific group of people.
Vulnerabilities
Vulnerabilities increase a person's likelihood of turning to hate. Examples include loneliness, feeling disconnected, struggling in school, poverty, or being bullied. These factors can make someone more susceptible to hate.
Exposure to Hate
Most people encounter hate accidentally, often online. Symbols or messages can hide in songs or memes. Algorithms amplify this, showing more hateful content if someone interacts with a hateful post.
If someone experiences these risks, that does not mean that they will act on hate.
Also, you should know that these categories do not include everything that might cause someone to act on hate. Don’t assume that anyone who is struggling will become violent. However, these things can build on each other, so it’s important to notice if someone is struggling. If you’re worried about someone, find out what you can do.
ATTACKS ARE PREVENTABLE
0%
of people planning an attack on a school communicated their intentions with peers, adults, or online before the attack.
0%
of people who committed a mass attack previously behaved in a way that caused fear for their safety or the safety of others.
0%
of planned attacks on schools were prevented because someone spoke up when they heard or saw concerning communications.
KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS
If someone doesn’t share their plans explicitly, they will likely show certain warning signs. If you know the signs, you can do something to help prevent future acts of violence. Here are some of the most important signs, how they might look, and what to do if you see them.
Know the Warning Signs
Here’s what warning signs can look like in action:
*This video contains content that some viewers might find upsetting. Watch with care.
You should know that these signs do not predict if someone will become violent. If you notice any of these behaviors, that does not mean that someone is dangerous. But it is good to share any strange behaviors with a trusted adult. If you’re worried that someone might become violent, seek help now.
This project was initially funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships, opportunity number DHS-23-TTP-132-00-01.
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Pittsburgh, PA 15219-2514
info@eradicatehatesummit.org
