Gun Violence
Articles tagged with Gun Violence
Hospital-based shootings in the US, 2000-2024
Hospital-based shootings in the US have increased over 25 years, with large hospitals and urban areas being high-risk settings. The study emphasizes the need for hospital-specific prevention strategies, including weapons screening technology, to address rising firearm violence.
Gun violence prevention efforts in semi-rural areas
A Rutgers study examines the challenges and opportunities of community violence intervention programs in semi-rural communities. The research highlights the importance of flexibility, strong partnerships, and local relationships to effectively respond to violence in broader geographic areas.
Researchers spot shifts in firearm suicide risk and seeking treatment after 2020 purchasing surge
Researchers found higher rates of suicidal ideation among individuals who died by firearm suicide after 2020, but lower engagement in mental health treatment. Demographic shifts also occurred, with more young, male, and minority decedents, highlighting gaps in suicide prevention strategies.
Rural youth face elevated firearm risk and mental health challenges
Rural youth experience elevated firearm exposure and mental health risks, with suicide rates surpassing urban areas. Researchers recommend holistic interventions focusing on safe storage practices and school-based education.
Online searches for gun-related harm
A notable minority of US youth and young adults, particularly those facing structural disadvantages and mental health distress, engage in intentional online searches for gun-related harm. Public health strategies combining digital interventions with structural reforms offer promise to reduce gun-related harm among vulnerable populations.
UCF research to help inform statewide efforts to stop domestic violence and improve care for survivors
Researchers are evaluating the state's domestic violence resources to better support survivors and prevent further abuse. Through a $257,384 grant, UCF faculty are analyzing data from various sources and surveying organizations that provide domestic violence services.
Many patients with firearm injuries are treated at hospitals with violence intervention programs, but few ultimately receive these services
Violence intervention programs are reaching at-risk trauma patients with firearm injuries, but only a small percentage of eligible patients participate. The study aims to improve access and integration of these programs to enhance recovery outcomes after injury.
Global gun violence research requires a multidisciplinary approach
Gun violence researchers face challenges in accessing quality data and securing funding due to geopolitical influences. A multidisciplinary approach is necessary to tackle this complex issue, involving academia, investigative journalism, and civil society to capture gun violence information.
Study shows trauma center placement saves lives
A recent study found that the opening of a trauma center in Chicago's South Side reduced firearm mortality by nearly 4% due to faster and closer emergency treatment. The study analyzed data on over 45,000 firearm-related incidents between 2010 and 2024.
Shooting-free days decline in major US cities; new metric aims at building sustained periods of peace
A new study by Columbia University researchers introduces four novel metrics to assess progress on gun violence prevention, highlighting the decline of shooting-free days in major US cities. The study suggests that these metrics can identify protective conditions and inform policy to sustain longer periods without firearm violence.
Thoughts don’t kill people, but study suggests options for keeping guns from doing so
A new study from Michigan Medicine found that over 7% of Americans have thought about shooting someone, while 8.7 million adults considered it in the last year. Firearm owners were no more likely to have these thoughts than non-owners, but 21% of those who had thoughts said they would consider giving their gun to someone for safekeeping.
Researchers track how the 2024 presidential election changed behaviors around firearms
A Rutgers Health study reveals increased intentions to purchase firearms and carry them among specific groups following the 2024 presidential election. Liberal beliefs are associated with greater impulses to carry firearms and store them more accessibly.
Parental firearm injury linked to increased mental health burden in children
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that children whose parents were injured by firearms experience substantial mental health impacts, with a 42% increase in psychiatric diagnoses and 60% increase in mental health visits. Early, targeted interventions are needed to address this growing need.
Hospital programs for violence victims can prevent future harm, Boston University study finds
A hospital-based program supporting gun and knife violence victims can halve the likelihood of future harm, according to a Boston University study. Regular engagement with the Violence Intervention Advocacy Program reduced the risk of being revictimized or committing violence by 50 percent two to three years after discharge.
US Congressmembers’ responses on X to mass shooting events differ along party lines
A study published in PLOS Global Public Health found that US Congress members' social media responses to mass shootings vary along party lines. Democratic congressmembers are more likely to post about guns, framing their responses in terms of community, victims, and legislature, whereas Republican members focus on Second Amendment righ...
The presence of a gun in the home increases the risk of suicide by three to five times
A review of 467 studies confirms that firearm ownership increases suicides, intensifies psychological fragility, and amplifies violence. Safe storage of firearms reduces but does not eliminate the risk, researchers say.
Child gun injury risk spikes when children leave school for the day
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found that child firearm injuries rise as soon as the school day ends, with a peak risk in the first 15 minutes after dismissal. Community-level interventions providing safe spaces for youth are crucial to prevent such violence.
Experts chart roadmap to reduce firearm harms, La Vigne part of group offering solutions
A blueprint for reducing firearms harms has been presented, suggesting investments in community-based initiatives and advancements in firearm technologies. The experts also recommend reframing gun violence as a public health issue and supporting coordinated action at federal, state, and local levels.
Mass shootings spur local voter turnout but don’t sway presidential vote choices, study finds
A new study by UMass Amherst and Brennan Center researchers found that mass shootings increase local voter turnout, particularly in Democratic areas, but have no effect on presidential vote choices. Turnout surged by up to 10 percentage points in neighborhoods near shootings.
Report outlines roadmap to curb firearm violence by 2040
The report proposes initiatives to reduce firearm violence, including using AI and addressing social causes. It also highlights the need for primordial prevention, which involves changing inequitable social structures to prevent violence.
Young adults fear mass shootings but don’t necessarily support gun control
A new study of emerging adults reveals deep divisions in sentiments about firearms, with those fearing mass violence more likely to oppose firearm restrictions, except among young Republicans, conservatives, and men who view expanded access to guns as a solution.
High schoolers face growing risk of firearm-related violence, WSU-led study shows
A WSU-led study shows firearm-related deaths are increasing dramatically among high school youth, with 3,224 deaths in 2022 compared to 1,945 in 2001. The research highlights the need for adapted firearm safety guidance tailored to developmental stages.
In-home gun homicides of children has more than doubled since 2010
In-home gun homicides of children have more than doubled since 2010, with nearly two-thirds of child victims aged 12 and under killed at home. The study found that these cases are often linked to intimate partner violence and child abuse, with parents being the most common assailants.
Research shows significant association between emergency department visits for firearm and motor vehicle-related crashes
Researchers found nearly one in four children with firearm injuries returned to the emergency room within four years with another violent or crash-related injury. The study suggests a significant association between motor vehicle crashes and firearm injury, indicating a need for prevention strategies.
Medicaid billed for 52% of U.S. hospital costs from gun injuries
A new study finds that gun injuries result in an estimated $7.7 billion in hospital costs for the US healthcare system between 2016 and 2021. The majority of these costs, 52%, were billed to Medicaid, highlighting the financial burden on safety-net hospitals serving vulnerable populations.
Research shows parent-owned guns most often used in youth suicide
Firearm suicides among youth ages 10-24 were more likely to involve a parent-owned gun, with 69% of firearms stored unlocked and loaded. The study emphasizes the importance of secure firearm storage in preventing youth suicide, particularly among those with mental health problems.
Exposure to gun violence is associated with insufficient sleep in teens
Research by Mass General Brigham reveals association between witnessing neighborhood violence and insufficient sleep in adolescents, leading to increased violent behaviors such as carrying a weapon. The study analyzed data from over 40,000 teenagers, finding strong links between sleep loss and exposure to violence.
Gun injury odds up to 20x higher for kids in disadvantaged ZIP codes
Children living in low-opportunity neighborhoods are more than 20 times likely to be hospitalized for gun injuries compared to those in high-opportunity areas. Unintentional shootings account for the majority of these cases.
Firearm suicides are increasing among older women at an alarming rate
A new study found that firearm suicides are rising sharply among older women, with nearly 40% of suicides involving firearms in 2014-2023. The trend outpaces older men, highlighting the need for tailored interventions to mitigate firearm suicides among all older adults.
Youth violence prevention program shown to reduce arrests by up to 75%
A CU Boulder-led initiative reduced youth violence and arrests by 75% in Denver's Montbello and Park Hill neighborhoods through a 'violence prevention infrastructure'. The program worked with community organizations to provide training, screenings, and positive adult role models, leading to lasting impacts.
Rise in gun violence in top U.S. movies parallels growth in gun homicides among young people
A study by Annenberg Public Policy Center found that firearm use in popular US movies increased by 200% from 2000 to 2021, mirroring the rise in firearm homicide rates among young people aged 15-24. The research suggests that portrayal of guns in entertainment may play a role in promoting their use for violent purposes.
Hidden violence: Murder-suicide events more common than previously known
Researchers found that murder-suicide events occurred at an average of 820 deaths annually between 2016-2022, with the majority involving current or former intimate partners. Strengthening domestic violence screening and intervention programs is crucial to prevent these tragic outcomes.
Researchers track the willingness of gun owners to temporarily store guns outside their homes
Researchers found that firearm owners prioritize household members' safety over their own self-protection when deciding on temporary storage. Gun owners are willing to store firearms with retailers or law enforcement agencies, with 34% open to storing with law enforcement.
US excess deaths continued to rise even after the COVID-19 pandemic
A new study led by Boston University School of Public Health reveals that US excess deaths have been increasing for decades, with working-age adults disproportionately affected. The study found that over 1.5 million 'missing Americans' would have been averted if the US had mortality rates similar to other high-income countries.
Majority of Americans experience some form of gun violence in person
A national study by Rutgers researchers found that nearly two-thirds of US adults have experienced some form of in-person gun violence, with Black and Hispanic adults more likely to be exposed. The study also revealed significant racial disparities in media-based exposure, with Black adults reporting the highest levels of exposure.
Most school shooters grew up with guns as key part of social life, study suggests
A new study suggests that most US school shooters came from social backgrounds where guns were a key part of their lives, often for family bonding. Researchers found that all shooters had easy access to the firearms they used, which contributed to the tragedy.
Understanding vicarious trauma in research assistant roles
A Rutgers Health study surveyed 27 research assistants working on a multistate firearm violence project, finding that 26% lacked emotional support outside their teams. Research assistants used short breaks (89%) and informal peer interactions (41%) to cope with the emotionally difficult topics.
Frequent exposure to gun violence is associated with depression, suicide and mental health
A national survey of 8,009 adults found that frequent exposure to gun violence is associated with increased depression, suicidal ideation, and need for mental health support. The study also highlights the importance of addressing interpersonal violence in suicide prevention efforts.
Program that aims to reduce cyclical, retaliatory gun violence saw shootings decline after prevention program in Lansing, MI
A new report by Michigan State University and Michigan Public Health Institute found that shootings in Lansing fell after the implementation of a prevention program, with some variations between years and communities. The Advance Peace Lansing program employs fellows to engage with individuals affected by gun violence.
Youth gun homicides doubled during second half of pandemic while adult rates returned to pre-COVID level
A new study finds that firearm homicide rates rose faster among youth than adults during the second half of the pandemic, with adolescent age groups showing no sign of decreasing. Gun violence prevention programs for school-aged children are urgently needed to address this persistent rise in firearm homicide rates.
Lifetime and past-year defensive gun use
Defensive gun use is a rare occurrence despite gun violence exposure, suggesting that perceived threats may not necessitate action. The study highlights the potential consequences of defensive gun use, emphasizing the need for accurate risk assessment in firearm policies.
Defensive firearm use is far less common than exposure to gun violence
Less than 1% of people with firearm access engage in defensive use annually, with most firearm users never using their weapons for self-defense. Those who have experienced gun violence or quick access to firearms are more likely to perceive threats and respond defensively.
Direct exposure to mass shootings among US adults
A survey study found that US adults have regular exposure to mass shootings, which disproportionately affects younger generations and males. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address the broader impacts of gun violence on public health and community well-being.
Americans willing to pay nearly $100 billion to reduce gun violence
A new study finds Americans are willing to pay nearly $100 billion for policies that reduce gun violence by 20%. The research, conducted by Duke University and the University of Chicago, shows widespread support from all demographics for stronger intervention. With a national WTP estimate of $97.6 billion, Americans are willing to inve...
Majority of kids who die in mass shootings killed by family members, Stanford Medicine-led study shows
A new Stanford Medicine-led study found that 59% of kids who die in mass shootings were at the hands of a family member. The research highlights the need to protect children from firearm injuries and domestic violence, emphasizing that homes may be more dangerous than schools.
Many adults report inaccurate beliefs about risks and benefits of home firearm access
A study by the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center found that a majority of adults believe home firearm access protects against home invasions, but many also underestimate its impact on suicide risk. The researchers suggest that misinformation from the firearms industry and media may contribute to these skewed perceptions.
Researchers identify public policies that work to prevent suicide
A study by New York University researchers found that public policies addressing economic security, alcohol consumption, and safety restrictions can effectively prevent suicide deaths in the US. Policies with strong evidence include those improving economic security, limiting access to alcohol, and restricting lethal means.
Acoustic sensors find frequent gunfire on school walking routes
A new study found that nearly two-thirds of schools in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood had at least one gun incident within 400 meters of where children were walking home during the 2021-22 school year. The researchers used acoustic sensors to detect gunshots and found that children are exposed to violence on their way to and from sch...
A third of people from Chicago carry concealed handguns in public before they reach middle age, major 25-year study finds
A major US study found that around a third of Chicago residents carry concealed firearms by middle age, with differences in gun carrying between men and women. Gun carrying in adolescence often occurs in response to direct experiences of violence, while adults are more likely to carry due to perceived threats to public safety.
With a quarter-century of data on gun usage, new study examines when and why people start carrying guns and if they persist in doing so
A new long-term study of gun usage found that most gun carriers began to carry in adulthood, not adolescence. Adult-onset carriers were more persistent in their carrying and had a different pattern of exposure to violence, whereas adolescent-onset carriers were associated with direct exposure to gun violence.
Special issue of Criminology & Public Policy examines gun violence
A recent special issue of Criminology & Public Policy explores the impact of legislative policies, criminal justice practices, and community-based efforts on gun violence. The studies featured in this issue aim to provide timely solutions to addressing this significant concern in the United States.
University of Michigan researchers to evaluate effectiveness of school-based firearm storage campaign
The University of Michigan School of Public Health and Institute for Firearm Injury Prevention will evaluate a community-led, school-based secure firearm storage campaign in Michigan. The study aims to assess the impact on attitudes, norms, and behaviors among adults and prevent adolescent firearm violence.
Firearm laws restricting large-capacity magazines effective in reducing child deaths in mass shootings
A new study analyzing state gun laws found that laws banning large-capacity magazines were associated with the greatest significant reduction of child deaths in mass shootings. The odds of a child dying from a mass shooting were decreased by 91% in states with such bans.
Pandemic of homicide grief in global Black communities urgently needs a public health response
The Centre for Research and Innovation for Black Survivors of Homicide Victims argues that the prevalence of homicide grief in Black communities is a pandemic. The researchers recommend strategies such as promoting research, enhancing early detection, and improving culturally responsive support services to address this issue.
One minute to save lives: Teaming up with pediatricians to secure firearms
A study found that pediatricians were more likely to deliver a secure gun storage program when receiving a 'nudge' or extra staff support, resulting in a significant increase from 2% to 49% of doctors. The findings suggest that even minimal resources can be effective in promoting this critical conversation.
Not just an urban problem: new study reports higher rate of shootings by police across suburbs and rural areas
A new study found that 45% of police shootings occurred in rural zip codes and 22% in suburban areas from 2015-2020. The study also revealed racial disparities in injury rates across urban-rural continuum, with Black and Native American residents disproportionately affected.
Even indirect gun violence exposure linked to decreased quality of life
A study by Rutgers University found that indirect gun violence exposure significantly hurts quality of life. Witnessing or hearing about a shooting in the neighborhood was associated with a decrease in overall quality of life and well-being across five domains.
Gun permits may be more effective than background checks alone at reducing firearm homicides
A study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that states with gun permit laws see firearm homicide rates 18% lower than those with universal background check policies alone. Gun permits are associated with decreases in firearm fatalities due to their ability to record lower-level crimes and update criminal databases more consistently.
AJPH study shows that permit to purchase laws are a promising avenue to reduce suicides in young adults
Researchers discovered that state firearm access laws significantly reduced firearm suicides among young adults. Implementing permit to purchase laws was associated with a 39% decrease in firearm suicides and a 14% decrease in overall suicide rates among this age group.