The threat of gun violence and mass shootings: The extent of avoidance and protective behaviors among the American public1

Abstract

The public and policymakers have become increasingly concerned about gun violence. However, there are open questions concerning how citizens have reacted to such threats, which if understood, could inform gun crime prevention efforts. Specifically, to what extent do Americans report avoidance (e.g., staying away from crowds) and protective (e.g., talking to others about staying safe, purchasing a gun) behaviors as avenues to protect themselves (and others) from gun violence? What factors—concern about crime, gun crime-related perceptions, prior firearm-related experiences, as well as personal characteristics (e.g., age, race, parental status)—are associated with such actions? Drawing on a 2023 national poll, this study examines these research questions. Results suggest a sizable number of Americans have engaged in avoidance (15%–35%) and protective (29–59%) behaviors. As theorized, the occurrence of these behaviors is related to various factors concerning perceptions and experiences with crime and guns as well as socio-demographic characteristics. Implications are discussed.