The Weeklong Attention Span: Thai Society, Violence, and the Shooting Case at Debsirin Nonthaburi School

Thai society is known for its fleeting attention span, with trending news topics typically lasting no more than a week according to the journalist's observations. This short period is crucial for collective social learning, as highlighted by the example of the beer house fire in Lat Phrao, where the death toll rose to 38 within a day, and the train collision at Makkasan intersection, which now seems distant despite occurring just months ago.

The role of mainstream mass media as gatekeepers has diminished over the past decade, with social media influencers wielding significant power in shaping public discourse. This chaotic environment makes it challenging for the public to remain passive and wait for the police or courts to explain the circumstances surrounding the tragedy that occurred last Friday.

The 14-year-old gunman shot his two grandparents to death first, then proceeded to kill six more people, mostly teachers at Debsirin Nonthaburi School, before taking his own life. Waiting for a thorough explanation is insufficient in a society with such a short attention span. As the days progress, fewer people will be interested in the issue, making it unlikely that anyone not directly involved will still care or discuss it after a week.

The government's attempts to appear resolute, such as Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's controversial remarks on gun use at home and calls for stricter gun control, are made during this brief window of public attention. However, the government's actions sometimes come across as knee-jerk reactions. The PM also discussed tightening gun control, despite the fact that many state officials, including Bhumjaithai MP Anucha Sasomsab who owns around 40 guns, and even the prime minister himself, have been known to own firearms.

The incident at Debsirin Nonthaburi School raises questions about the roles of bullying, academic pressure, and other factors that may have contributed to the tragedy. However, it is unclear at this stage how significant these factors were. Addressing bullying and improving school security standards, as well as mental well-being, are essential steps to prevent similar incidents.

Foreign observer Paul Handley, who sees Thai society as violent, believes that the police and justice system are corrupt, contributing to the gun problem in Thailand. He suggests that superficial conflict avoidance and the myth of Thai smiles can suppress overt conflicts, but they may eventually lead to violent explosions if the underlying anger is not addressed.

This perspective aligns with the view that Thai society is repressed, placing great importance on saving face and maintaining peace and order on the surface, while being an authoritarian society where repression can lead to brutal violence if people can no longer endure it.