Examining the issue of copycat behavior, lessons from mass shootings, warning signs appearing within two weeks, and the three key vulnerabilities in Thai society that require vigilance to prevent recurrence.
Shortly after the mass shooting at Debsirin School, Loey Pittayakhom School in Mueang District, Loey Province, urgently announced a one-day closure of on-site classes on 14 August 2026. This followed detection of chat messages from a Grade 8 male student threatening to carry out a violent shooting at the school. The behavior appeared to be imitative of the violent incident at a school in Nonthaburi Province. Details of the student's behavior emerged from leaked chats where he threatened friends on social media about committing an attack, prompting teachers to be informed due to his fascination with weapons.
The student had previously been punished for bringing a realistic toy gun (BB gun) to school. He posted photos of real firearms being cleaned, images of himself pointing a gun at his temple, and pictures lying next to a gun on his bed. Loey Pittayakhom School immediately switched all students to online learning, and staff were instructed to work from home to safely manage the situation. Preliminary investigations found no signs of actual preparations to carry out the threatened attack.
Is this behavior mere threats or likely to result in real violence? We consulted Assistant Professor Dr. Thanandsak Bawornnantakul, a criminologist and former faculty member of criminology and justice administration at Mahidol University. He explained, “Typically, incidents following mass shootings, known as Mass shooting, Active shooting, or School Shooter events, are considered copycat phenomena, also called 'Copycat syndrome' or 'Copycat Mass shooting' or contagion. This phenomenon usually recurs within two weeks—about 14 days—after an event and can continue for up to a year. The perpetrators often share similar age groups, gender, ethnicity, or nationality. These are actual occurrences.”
Why do repeat offenders imitate previous attacks? Numerous studies collecting data from surviving perpetrators reveal they consider earlier events as inspiration or role models. For example, after the Columbine High School shooting in Colorado, the shooter at Virginia Tech stated they identified with the Columbine assailants. They also viewed the violent acts as a means to gain fame or notoriety through media exposure, which some groups perceive as free publicity. Others view it as a distorted route to fame and a way to announce themselves to the world, seeking recognition for their actions.
Copycat shootings are believed to manifest in two forms. The first is a temporary or superficial imitation called “Fashionable copycat,” arising among individuals with similar problems or experiences, such as debt or grudges. These individuals may exploit opportunities or ongoing bullying at school to issue warnings or threats, sometimes mimicking dress, possessions, or posting similar messages mainly as intimidation. These behaviors usually do not result in actual attacks and fade over time. The second form, which is more concerning, involves individuals obsessively fixated on particular subjects, such as an obsession with firearms, representing a genuine and deep-seated imitation.
The motivations behind copycat behavior come from three main factors. First, individuals facing problems or unpleasant experiences—such as feeling threatened or hurt—may view violent acts as a solution or way to end their troubles. Second, many have narcissistic personality traits, a mental health issue more common in males. These individuals seek attention and acceptance, lack empathy, and disregard others' feelings, seeing violence as a way to gain recognition and respect. They may also feel entitled above others and become disappointed or angry when expectations are unmet.
Despite their grandiose self-image, those with this personality disorder often suffer from low self-esteem, insecurity, and difficulties forming relationships with family, school peers, or colleagues. This personality disorder typically emerges during adolescence. The third and most critical motivation is media consumption. Repeated exposure to news coverage of shootings (mass media effects) reinforces and influences imitation after such events.
Countries like the United States and others that have experienced such incidents have developed guidelines and campaigns urging media to avoid naming perpetrators, known as the “Don't Name Them” or “No Notoriety” principle, to reduce glorification and prevent imitation. News coverage should focus on victims and the harm caused, presenting perpetrators negatively—as cowardly, shameful, or reckless—to discourage admiration. Emphasizing negative traits helps potential imitators understand society does not celebrate these acts.
Moreover, media should avoid detailed or in-depth reporting that may encourage comparisons or glorification. Journalists are encouraged to keep reports brief and factual, minimizing stressors that could trigger incidents. Social media users are advised against sharing such information within groups, considering the content inappropriate for wider distribution to prevent further harm.