A new analysis of medical evidence of domestic mass shooters in the US reveals the majority of those who commit mass shootings have underlying and untreated mental health conditions.
Video games are often blamed as a cause of mass shootings, especially if the perpetrator is white. When it comes to perpetrators of other racial backgrounds, people are more likely to assume they are involved in violent criminal activities. Blaming gaming for school shootings perpetrated by white people, and thereby providing an unfounded excuse for their actions, is a sign of a larger racial issue. Similar excuses aren't extended to people of other racial backgrounds. Instead, they are viewed as more culpable for their crimes.
Despite widespread propaganda, people with mental illnesses only commit 3-4% of all violent acts within the U.S in any given year. Mental health conditions are more strongly associated with suicide, not homicide. Restricting access to guns for those with mental health issues does not take into account those who already own guns and develop mental health conditions over their lifetime. Researchers say, given the climate of blame, people with severe mental health disorders may be dissuaded from seeking treatment.
"Routinely blaming mass shootings on mental illness is unfounded and stigmatizing. Research has shown that only a very small percentage of violent acts are committed by people who are diagnosed with, or in treatment for, mental illness."
Researchers report on the social and psychological consequences exposure to mass shootings have on survivors, first responders and the community as a whole.
A new study reports American gun owners are exhibiting increased levels of political participation, not only by voting but also donating to candidate funds and contacting elected officials.
Researchers report people should look more deeply into the environmental factors and mental health issues surrounding those involved in school shootings, and not simply blame peer rejection.
A new study looks at misconceptions that occur as a result of mass shootings and aims to debunk some of the common myths.
Researchers call on the media to deny mass shooters the fame they seek.
