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Bock JE, Daruwala SE, Tucker RP, Foster SD, Bandel SL, Gunn JF, Anestis MD. Honor Endorsement and Increased Firearm Purchasing Behavior and Intentions During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Psychol Rep 2024:332941241255323. [PMID: 38802302 DOI: 10.1177/00332941241255323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The surge in firearm sales from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic have been linked to increases in firearm violence, which is of public concern given that having firearms in one's home is associated with increased risk for domestic violence and suicide. Consistent with pre-pandemic trends, individuals tended to purchase firearms for self-protection during COVID-19. Prior work indicates that protective firearm ownership is motivated not only by perceptions that the world (and one's local environment) is dangerous, but also by one's endorsement of masculinity norms found in U.S. cultures of honor (primarily southern and western states). Honor-based masculinity norms emphasis reputation defense, toughness, and an absolute intolerance of disrespect. The present research examined the relative motivating influences of various threat perceptions and masculine honor endorsement in predicting reasons for non-COVID-19 firearm ownership, firearm purchasing during COVID-19, and purchase intentions. Three separate samples (total N = 2483) of mostly White U.S. men completed online surveys during different months of the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants completed measures of their endorsement of masculine honor norms, factors associated with firearm purchasing (e.g., dangerous world beliefs, intolerance of uncertainty), and firearm purchasing behaviors. Results indicated that masculine honor endorsement was higher among (1) protective firearm owners compared to non-owners and non-protective owners, (2) firearm owners who purchased a firearm during COVID-19 compared to non-owners and non-purchasing owners, and (3) firearm owners with intentions to purchase firearms in the next year compared to those without intentions and undecided owners. Relative to other predictors (e.g., COVID-19 concerns, dangerous world beliefs), masculine honor endorsement was consistently the strongest predictor of these outcomes. Findings add to the literature by highlighting the strength of masculine honor endorsement in motivating (protective) firearm ownership. Implications for interpersonal violence and suicide are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarrod E Bock
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Samantha E Daruwala
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Raymond P Tucker
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | | | - Shelby L Bandel
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - John F Gunn
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- School of Public Health - Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Michael D Anestis
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- Department of Urban-Global Public Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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Beachy S, Liang CT, Fizur P, Fu Q, Johnson NL. Disentangling the coping process in White rural men who carry guns. Psychol Rep 2024:332941241252771. [PMID: 38770861 DOI: 10.1177/00332941241252771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Affluent White rural men have the highest rates of gun ownership in the United States. However, few studies have specifically examined reasons and motivations for gun ownership and gun behaviors in this population. Therefore, this study sought to examine the relationship between stress variables, namely masculine gender role stress, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and income level, and subsequent pro-gun beliefs and amount of time an individual carried a gun within this population. Results indicated that only two measures of pro-gun beliefs (i.e., believing guns keep one safe, believing guns are present in one's social sphere) were correlated with percentage of time an individual carried. Additionally, ACEs were positively correlated with believing guns influence how others perceive oneself, levels of masculine gender role stress, and income. These results suggest that White rural gun owners who have increased ACEs have decreased income and tend to believe that owning guns impacts their social status with peers. However, increased ACEs do not influence belief about guns keeping one safe, believing guns are present in one's social sphere, or gun carriage. Instead, White rural gun owners without childhood adversity may be more susceptible to believing their safety depends on guns and belongingness within their social sphere. Future research should assess reasons why affluent White rural men find it important to maintain their safety in the context of gun ownership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Beachy
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital System, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Christopher Th Liang
- Department of Education and Human Services, College of Education, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA
| | - Philip Fizur
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ, USA
| | - Qiong Fu
- Department of Education and Human Services, College of Education, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA
| | - Nicole L Johnson
- Department of Education and Human Services, College of Education, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA
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3
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Semenza DC, Ziminski D, Anestis MD. Physical Intimate Partner Violence and Emotional Harm in Five U.S. States. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024; 39:2344-2368. [PMID: 38158732 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231218219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between physical intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization and four related aspects of emotional well-being: threat sensitivity, intolerance of uncertainty, impulse control, and access to resources for emotional regulation. We draw on a transactional model of IPV and emotional regulation to theorize how invalidation and partner threats in relationships can generate harmful emotional outcomes. We used representative data collected for residents living in five U.S. states: Colorado, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Jersey, and Texas. Our analytic sample included individuals who reported having been in a romantic relationship in the past year (N = 2,501). Data were collected using a probability-based web panel, between April 29 and May 15, 2022. Following the presentation of descriptive statistics and bivariate correlations, we developed a series of four multivariate models (ordinary least squares [OLS], negative binomial) to analyze the association between IPV victimization and each emotional outcome. All models adjusted for pertinent demographic and geographic control measures. Physical IPV victimization was associated with increased intolerance of uncertainty and heightened threat sensitivity. IPV victimization also corresponded with poorer impulse control and fewer resources for emotional regulation. Overall, our results demonstrate that experiences of physical IPV victimization are linked to poorer emotional outcomes. These outcomes can be harmful to broader mental health and potentially impact long-term well-being. The findings underscore the importance of mental health screenings that extend beyond assessments of diagnostic-level functions and allocating resources toward alleviating other clinically relevant factors that might arise from or even prompt additional exposure to physical IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Semenza
- Rutgers University, Camden, NJ, USA
- Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Devon Ziminski
- Rutgers University, Camden, NJ, USA
- Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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Manzler CA, Gorka SM, Tabares JV, Bryan CJ. Impact of handgun ownership and biological sex on startle reactivity to predictable and unpredictable threats. Int J Psychophysiol 2024; 197:112297. [PMID: 38185419 PMCID: PMC10922634 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2024.112297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Extant literature suggests that many individuals obtain firearms because they perceive the world as unsafe and believe that firearm ownership increases physical protection. Converging evidence suggests that firearm owners are vulnerable to uncertainty and experience chronic anticipatory anxiety in daily life; however, biological sex is thought to potentially moderate this association. Studies have yet to examine this hypothesis using objective markers of anticipatory anxiety. The present study therefore examined the impact of handgun ownership and biological sex on psychophysiological reactivity to predictable (P-) and unpredictable (U-) threat (N = 133). Male and female adult participants were classified into two groups: a) individuals who do not currently own any handguns (n = 52), and b) individuals who currently own one or more handguns (n = 81). Startle eyeblink potentiation was recorded as an index of aversive reactivity during a well-validated threat-of-shock paradigm designed to probe anticipatory anxiety (during U-threat) and fear (during P-threat). Results revealed no main effect of group on startle reactivity to P- or U-threat. Females displayed greater startle reactivity to threat (P- and U-) compared with males. The main effect was qualified by a significant group x biological sex interaction. Male handgun owners exhibited greater startle to U-threat, but not P-threat, relative to non-handgun owners. There was no effect of group on startle reactivity in females. Findings revealed that biological sex and threat type influenced threat reactivity. Male handgun owners displayed increased sensitivity to stressors that are uncertain, which may reflect an objective mechanism related to firearm ownership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles A Manzler
- Department of Psychology, University of South Florida, 3711 USF Citrus Drive, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
| | - Stephanie M Gorka
- Suicide and Trauma Reduction InitiatiVE (STRIVE), Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 370 W. 9th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, 460 Medical Center Drive, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Jeffrey V Tabares
- Suicide and Trauma Reduction InitiatiVE (STRIVE), Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 370 W. 9th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Craig J Bryan
- Suicide and Trauma Reduction InitiatiVE (STRIVE), Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 370 W. 9th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Lu Y, Baumler E, DeMello AS, Wood L, McGuire H, Temple JR. Firearm access, carriage and use in an ethnically diverse sample of young adults in Texas, USA. Inj Prev 2024:ip-2023-044989. [PMID: 38429080 DOI: 10.1136/ip-2023-044989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Background Despite the high rates of firearm ownership and firearm-related injuries and mortalities in Southern US states, understandings on the factors contributing to these are lacking.Methods Using wave 10 (2021) data from a longitudinal study, we examined firearm-related experiences among 636 ethnically diverse young adults (mean age=26 years; 62% female) in Texas, USA.Results Just over half of participants had ready access to firearms, with 22.3% having carried a firearm outside of their home, 4.9% having been threatened with a firearm by a romantic partner and 4.4% by a non-romantic partner. More firearm access and carriage were reported in males, white participants and those with >US$50 000 income. More females than males had been threatened with a firearm by a romantic partner, but more males than females had been threatened by a non-partner. Participants with recent financial difficulties were proportionally more likely to be threatened with a firearm than those without difficulties.Conclusion Findings emphasise the alarming rate of firearm access and carriage in Texas and highlight the disparities in firearms experiences by sociodemographic characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Lu
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA
| | - Elizabeth Baumler
- McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Leila Wood
- McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hillary McGuire
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jeff R Temple
- School of Behavioral Health Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Anestis MD, Bond AE, Moceri-Brooks J, Bandel SL, Semenza D. Perceptions of the utility of secure firearm storage methods as a suicide prevention tool among firearm owners who currently store their firearms loaded and unlocked. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2024; 54:122-128. [PMID: 38015108 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.13023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although secure firearm storage can prevent firearm injury and death, secure storage is relatively rare. This tendency may be driven in part by a perceived lack of utility for secure storage in preventing suicide and other gun violence-related outcomes. METHOD We recruited a large (n = 3510) representative sample of residents from five US states and assessed the degree to which those who do and do not store their firearms securely perceive different utility in specific firearm storage practices for suicide prevention. To test for specificity, we examined if those differences hold when considering unintentional shooting and firearm theft prevention. RESULTS Those who currently store their firearms unsecured reported lower perceived utility in several firearm storage practices, particularly for suicide and theft prevention. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight that a lack of perceived utility in secure firearm storage may partially drive unsecure firearm storage. Efforts to promote secure storage must address this misperception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Anestis
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- School of Public Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Allison E Bond
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Shelby L Bandel
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Daniel Semenza
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- School of Public Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice, Rutgers-Camden, Camden, New Jersey, USA
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Bryan CJ, Daruwala SE, Tabares JV, Butner JE, Coccaro EF, Gorka SM. Heightened threat perceptions and reduced stability in anxiety and fear among U.S. adults who carry handguns. J Anxiety Disord 2023; 99:102764. [PMID: 37597342 PMCID: PMC10543589 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2023.102764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Firearm carrying is often motivated to provide safety and is correlated with increased anxiety related to elevated perceptions of the world as a dangerous place. No studies have investigated affective states among firearm owners as they occur in their natural environments. This study used ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to examine cognitive-affective states among firearm owners who carry handguns outside their home (n = 35), firearm owners who do not carry (n = 47), and non-firearm owners (n = 62). Participants completed a self-report questionnaire at baseline followed by EMA surveys of mood state with the Positive and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS) 6 times per day for 28 consecutive days. Carry handgun owners reported significantly higher threat perceptions, measured with the negative cognitions about the world subscale of the shortened Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory (PTCI), than no-carry handgun owners (Mdiff=2.0, 95% CI=0.8-2.0, d=0.45, p = .001) and non-owners (Mdiff=1.8, 95% CI=0.6-2.9, d=0.42, p = .003). Groups did not significantly differ in mean momentary mood ratings assessed via EMA but stability in high-arousal negative arousal was significantly reduced among carry handgun owners (F(2, 150)= 3.7, p = .026). Results suggest firearm owners who carry handguns view the world as especially dangerous, are more likely to experience shifts in anxiety and fear, and take longer to recover from periods of elevated anxiety and fear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig J Bryan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 3650 Olentangy River Rd, Suite 330, Columbus, OH 43214, United States.
| | - Samantha E Daruwala
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 3650 Olentangy River Rd, Suite 330, Columbus, OH 43214, United States
| | - Jeffrey V Tabares
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 3650 Olentangy River Rd, Suite 330, Columbus, OH 43214, United States
| | - Jonathan E Butner
- Department of Psychology, The University of Utah, 380 1530 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, United States
| | - Emil F Coccaro
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 3650 Olentangy River Rd, Suite 330, Columbus, OH 43214, United States
| | - Stephanie M Gorka
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 3650 Olentangy River Rd, Suite 330, Columbus, OH 43214, United States
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8
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Hicks BM, Vitro C, Johnson E, Sherman C, Heitzeg MM, Durbin CE, Verona E. Who bought a gun during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States?: Associations with QAnon beliefs, right-wing political attitudes, intimate partner violence, antisocial behavior, suicidality, and mental health and substance use problems. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290770. [PMID: 37643192 PMCID: PMC10464976 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
There was a large spike in gun purchases and gun violence during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. We used an online U.S. national survey (N = 1036) to examine the characteristics of people who purchased a gun between March 2020 and October 2021 (n = 103) and compared them to non-gun owners (n = 763) and people who own a gun but did not purchase a gun during the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 170). Compared to non-gun owners, pandemic gun buyers were younger and more likely to be male, White race, and to affiliate with the Republican party. Compared to non-gun owners and pre-pandemic gun owners, pandemic gun buyers exhibited extreme elevations on a constellation of political (QAnon beliefs, pro-gun attitudes, Christian Nationalism, approval of former President Donald Trump, anti-vax beliefs, COVID-19 skepticism; mean Cohen's d = 1.15), behavioral (intimate partner violence, antisocial behavior; mean d = 1.38), mental health (suicidality, depression, anxiety, substance use; mean d = 1.21), and personality (desire for power, belief in a dangerous world, low agreeableness, low conscientiousness; mean d = 0.95) characteristics. In contrast, pre-pandemic gun owners only endorsed more pro-gun attitudes (d = 0.67), lower approval of President Joe Biden (d = -0.41) and were more likely to be male and affiliate with the Republican party relative to non-gun owners. Pandemic gun buyers represent an extreme group in terms of political and psychological characteristics including several risk-factors for violence and self-harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian M. Hicks
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Catherine Vitro
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth Johnson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Carter Sherman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Mary M. Heitzeg
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - C. Emily Durbin
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
| | - Edelyn Verona
- Department of Psychology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
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Bond AE, Brooks JR, Rodriguez TR, Bandel SL, Anestis MD. Examining characteristics and experiences of Black firearm owners. J Clin Psychol 2023. [PMID: 37190950 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study sought to better understand the characteristics of those who own firearms in the Black community; and to understand how Black firearm owners differ from nonfirearm owning Black individuals on a variety of variables related to safety, threat concerns, and suicide risk. METHODS Two samples were utilized in this study. The first was a subsample of those who identified as Black from a nationally representative sample (N = 502) seeking to understand firearm ownership within the United States. The second used a subsample of those who identified as Black (N = 1086) from a representative sample from New Jersey, Minnesota, and Mississippi. Variables related to safety and threat concerns were included in the second sample. RESULTS In both samples, multiple demographic variables, such as being a woman and having higher education, predicted firearm ownership. In the second sample, experiences of everyday discrimination and crime experiences were associated with firearm ownership. Additionally, Black firearm owners reported significantly more suicidal ideation than Black nonfirearm owners. CONCLUSION The findings demonstrate the unique characteristics and experiences of Black firearm owners and show that firearm ownership is associated with increased suicide risk factors for Black adults. Findings should be used to advocate for the creation of more culturally relevant suicide prevention and firearm means safety strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison E Bond
- The New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jasmin R Brooks
- Department of Psychology, The University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Taylor R Rodriguez
- The New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Shelby L Bandel
- The New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Michael D Anestis
- The New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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10
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Anestis MD, Bandel SL, Bond AE, Bryan CJ. Threat sensitivity, intolerance of uncertainty, and firearm purchasing during a firearm purchasing surge. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 162:200-206. [PMID: 37172510 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The firearm purchasing surge that began in 2020 has seen an unprecedented number of firearms purchased within the United States. The present study examined if those who purchased during the surge differed in their levels of threat sensitivity and intolerance of uncertainty from firearm owners who did not purchase during the surge and from non-firearm owners. A sample of 6,404 participants from New Jersey, Minnesota, and Mississippi were recruited through Qualtrics Panels. Results indicated that surge purchasers have higher levels of intolerance of uncertainty and threat sensitivity relative to firearm owners who did not purchase during the surge and non-firearm owners. Additionally, first time purchasers reported greater threat sensitivity and intolerance of uncertainty relative to established firearm owners who purchased additional firearms during the purchasing surge. Findings from the present study increase our understanding of how sensitivity to threats and the ability to tolerate uncertainty differs among firearm owners purchasing at this time. The results help us determine what programs will increase safety among firearm owners (e.g., buy back options, safe storage maps, firearm safety trainings).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Anestis
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, USA; Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, USA.
| | | | | | - Craig J Bryan
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, USA
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11
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Donnelly M, Kuza C, Sargent B, Swentek L, de Virgilio C, Grigorian A, Schubl S, Nahmias J. Firearm Violence Surrounding the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Reopening Phenomenon. J Surg Res 2023; 285:168-175. [PMID: 36680877 PMCID: PMC9808419 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2022.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Past research has demonstrated a "reopening phenomenon" of increased firearm violence associated with the initial lifting of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic-related restrictions after the first wave. Now, with widespread societal reemergence from stay-at-home measures, we hypothesize another spike in firearm violence in the United States (US). Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the trends in firearm violence before and after extensive community reopenings during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS The Gun Violence Archive was utilized to collect data on daily firearm violence incidents, injuries, and deaths as well as on types of firearm violence. Mann-Whitney U-tests were performed for trends and types of firearm violence "before" (12/14/20-4/9/21) versus "after" (4/10/21-7/31/21) widespread societal reopening in the US. Additional analyses also sought to compare the after reopening time-period to historical data (2017-2020) of similar calendar dates, to better control for possible annual/seasonal variation. RESULTS Median daily firearm violence incidents (153 versus 176, P < 0.001), injuries (89 versus 121, P < 0.001) and deaths (54 versus 58, P < 0.001) increased from before versus after reopening. Compared to all historical years, in the after reopening time-period there were consistent increases in total as well as mass shooting incidents/injuries/deaths (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Firearm violence incidents, injuries, and deaths increased after societal reemergence from the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, there has been an increase in mass shootings despite a relative lull initially brought on by the pandemic. This suggests the "reopening phenomenon" has worsened an already substantial national firearm epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Donnelly
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Burns and Surgical Critical Care, Orange, California
| | - Catherine Kuza
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Brynn Sargent
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Burns and Surgical Critical Care, Orange, California
| | - Lourdes Swentek
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Burns and Surgical Critical Care, Orange, California
| | | | - Areg Grigorian
- Department of Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Sebastian Schubl
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Burns and Surgical Critical Care, Orange, California
| | - Jeffry Nahmias
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Burns and Surgical Critical Care, Orange, California.
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12
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Roess AA, Henderson LF, Adams LM, Renshaw KD. Predictors of firearm purchasing during the coronavirus pandemic in the United States: a cross-sectional study. Public Health 2023; 219:159-164. [PMID: 37244224 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to compare determinants of firearm purchasing related to the pandemic. STUDY DESIGN This was a cross-sectional survey. METHODS A total of 3853 online panel participants completed a survey between December 22, 2020, and January 2, 2021, to approximate a nationally representative sample of US adults (aged ≥18 years). Four firearm ownership groups were created: non-owners, a proxy for first-time COVID-19 owners, prepandemic owners with COVID-19 purchase, and prepandemic owners without COVID-19 purchase. Explanatory variables were in four domains: demographics, concern about the pandemic, actions taken in response to COVID-19, and emotional response to COVID-19. Multivariate analysis estimated the adjusted odds of the outcomes. RESULTS Respondents were categorized as non-owners (n = 2440), pandemic-related purchasers with no other firearms (n = 257), pandemic-related purchasers with other firearms (n = 350), and those who did not purchase in response to the pandemic but have other firearms (n = 806). Multivariable logistic regression found that compared with non-owners, those who had firearms at home with no pandemic-related purchases are more likely to be male, live in rural settings, have higher income, and be Republican. CONCLUSIONS The results highlight the changing profile of American firearm owners and identify that those who purchased firearms for the first time (in response to the pandemic) should be the focus of tailored public health interventions, including provision of education about recommended firearm storage to reduce firearm violence, particularly because they are more likely to have children at home, and belong to demographic groups that may have less experience with firearm safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Roess
- Department of Global and Community Health, College of Public Health, George Mason University, 4400 University Blvd, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA.
| | - L F Henderson
- Department of Global and Community Health, College of Public Health, George Mason University, 4400 University Blvd, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
| | - L M Adams
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, 4400 University Blvd, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
| | - K D Renshaw
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, 4400 University Blvd, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
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13
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Pan I, Zinko J, Weedn V, Nestadt PS. Long gun suicides in the state of Maryland following the firearm safety act of 2013. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2023; 53:29-38. [PMID: 36040306 PMCID: PMC9908857 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In 2013, the state of Maryland passed the Firearms Safety Act limiting the private sales of handguns, which did not apply to long guns often used for hunting (e.g., rifles and shotguns). This decreased the accessibility of handguns relative to long guns. We assessed the frequency of long gun suicides in the years before and after the policy change during winter season, which encompasses hunting season in Maryland. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis on all 4107 well-characterized adult suicides caused by firearms in Maryland from 2003 through 2019. Logistic regression was performed, stratifying by decedent sex, race, and age. RESULTS While handgun suicides decreased in the period after 2013's Firearm Safety Act (p < 0.008), wintertime long gun suicides increased after 2013 (p < 0.004). Caucasian race (p < 0.006), male sex (p < 0.005), and middle age (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with wintertime long gun suicides after 2013. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that while the 2013 Firearms Safety Act decreased handgun suicides significantly, it did not reduce long gun suicides and there may even have been replacement with long guns during hunting season, when rifles are out and accessible. This association was most prominent among the demographics most likely to hunt (Caucasian, middle-aged, and male).
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Pan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - James Zinko
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Victor Weedn
- Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Paul S. Nestadt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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14
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Monteith LL, Kinney AR, Holliday R, Miller C, Schneider AL, Hoffmire CA, Simonetti JA, Brenner LA, Forster JE. Associations between deployment experiences, safety-related beliefs, and firearm ownership among women Veterans. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 157:72-81. [PMID: 36442409 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Among women Veterans, firearms are the leading suicide means. This has prompted efforts to elucidate factors associated with women Veterans' firearm ownership. This cross-sectional study examined if deployment experiences were associated with firearm ownership among women Veterans and if safety-related beliefs mediated these associations. METHODS 492 previously deployed post-9/11 women Veterans participated in a national survey that included the Deployment Risk and Resilience Inventory-2, subscales of the Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory and Posttraumatic Maladaptive Beliefs Scale, and firearm ownership questions. Path analysis was used. RESULTS Perceived threat during deployment was associated with firearm ownership, irrespective of safety-related beliefs. Indirect effects did not support that safety-related beliefs mediated relations between deployment experiences and firearm ownership. The other deployment experiences (sexual harassment, sexual assault, general harassment, combat experiences) were not indirectly associated with firearm ownership, nor were safety-related beliefs (negative cognitions about the world, threat of harm, beliefs about others' reliability and trustworthiness) directly associated with firearm ownership. In an exploratory serial mediation analysis, perceived threat during deployment mediated the association between combat experiences and firearm ownership. In a sensitivity analysis examining firearm acquisition following military service, results were similar, except the indirect effect of combat experiences upon firearm acquisition through perceived threat was not significant. CONCLUSION Post-9/11 women Veterans' firearm acquisition and ownership may relate to specific deployment experiences, such as perceived threat; however, longitudinal studies are needed to fully ascertain this. Efforts to address firearm access among post-9/11 women Veterans may benefit from assessing heightened sense of danger during deployment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey L Monteith
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, 1700 North Wheeling St., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 East 17th Place, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Rm 1201G, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Adam R Kinney
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, 1700 North Wheeling St., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Rm 1201G, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Ryan Holliday
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, 1700 North Wheeling St., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 East 17th Place, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Christin Miller
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, 1700 North Wheeling St., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Alexandra L Schneider
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, 1700 North Wheeling St., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Claire A Hoffmire
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, 1700 North Wheeling St., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Rm 1201G, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Joseph A Simonetti
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, 1700 North Wheeling St., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Division of Hospital Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12401 East 17th Avenue, 4th Floor, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Lisa A Brenner
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, 1700 North Wheeling St., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 East 17th Place, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Rm 1201G, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Jeri E Forster
- VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, 1700 North Wheeling St., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Rm 1201G, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, 13001 East 17th Place, 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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15
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Barberis N, Cannavò M, Cuzzocrea F, Verrastro V. Suicidal Behaviours During Covid-19 Pandemic: A Review. CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2022; 19:84-96. [PMID: 35601250 PMCID: PMC9112993 DOI: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20220202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Objective Novel COVID-19 disease has become a major concern worldwide, and a recent line of research warned that the context of the COVID-19 pandemic may be a major risk factor for developing severe suicidal behaviors. A broad systematic review is needed to cover the studies that have already assessed the potential underlying factors for suicidal behaviors in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak. Method A total of 52 studies met the inclusion criteria, and data were then described according to the subsequent categories: (1) countries where the studies were carried out; (2) factors impacting suicidal behaviors during the COVID-19 outbreak; and (3) examination of the observed populations. Results Findings of the current systematic review suggest that there is a certain amount of heterogeneity in factors impacting suicidal behaviors during the COVID-19 outbreak, with economic downturn, psychiatric vulnerability, isolation and quarantine, health concerns, and relational difficulties being the most prominent reasons for developing suicidal behaviors during the COVID-19 outbreak. Conclusions Timely interventions are needed to prevent suicidal behaviors in both the clinical and general populations, and in this regard, the creation of standard procedures may speed up the process.
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Pruitt LD, Sung JC, Walker KA. What is “safety”?: Lethal means counseling as a cross-cultural communication. MILITARY PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/08995605.2022.2040939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Larry D. Pruitt
- VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, Washington
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Jeffrey C. Sung
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
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17
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Tucker RP, Powers J, Pardue-Bourgeois S, Oakey-Frost N, Moscardini EH, Gilroy SP, Capron DW, Bryan CJ, Anestis MD. Vehicle Firearm Storage: Prevalence and Correlates in a Sample of Male Firearm Owners. Arch Suicide Res 2021; 27:479-493. [PMID: 34962216 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2021.2020698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Previous research has linked unsafe firearm storage practices and other ownership-related characteristics to key factors that facilitate the transition from suicidal thoughts to suicidal behaviors (i.e., acquired capability for suicide). This research has not investigated the extent to which firearm owners store firearms in their vehicles, a factor that increases ready access to the most lethal means of suicide. OBJECTIVE This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence of occasional and permanent vehicle firearm storage as well as demographic and psychological correlates of this practice in a sample of N = 408 adult male firearm owners oversampled for historical thoughts of suicide. METHODS Participants completed an online survey for monetary compensation. RESULTS Over 40% of participants indicated at least occasionally storing firearms in their vehicles with over 15% indicating storage of firearms unlocked and loaded. Elevated scores on measures of negative affect, worry, intolerance of uncertainty, and historical suicidal thoughts and behaviors were seen in those who endorsed vehicle firearm storage compared to those who did not. CONCLUSION Individual and public health firearm safety strategies would benefit from an explicit focus on the transition of firearms to and from one's vehicle.HIGHLIGHTSOver 40% of male firearm owners at least occasionally store a firearm in a vehicle.15% of those who store a firearm in a vehicle do so unlocked and loaded.Suicidal thought severity was related to storing a firearm in a vehicle.Historical suicidal behaviors were related to storing a firearm in a vehicle.
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Structural Barriers Associated with the Intersection of Traumatic Stress and Gun Violence: A Case Example of New Orleans. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9121645. [PMID: 34946370 PMCID: PMC8701294 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9121645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gun violence drastically increased in urban cities following the ease of shutdown restrictions associated with the Coronavirus Pandemic. The association of gun violence and COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of taking a public health perspective, particularly as it relates to impacts on the Black community. In this article we discuss macro-level factors and community traumas in the city of New Orleans, an area that has had longstanding issues related to gun violence. Community structural issues, traumatic stress from disasters, and recommendations to address disparities in social determinants of health are discussed.
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