Gun violence and children: factors related to exposure and trauma

The study discussed in this article investigated the relationship between access to firearms and parental monitoring on rural youths' exposure to gun violence and examined the effect of gun violence exposure on the mental health of these youths. A survey was administered to rural students who participated in a student assistance program (n = 162) that provided in-school support groups for students in grades 6 through 12. Results indicated that a substantial number of students were exposed to gun violence and exposure was significantly related to firearm access and parental monitoring. Furthermore, gun violence exposure was significantly associated with trauma among the youths. Implications for social workers include advising high-risk clients and their families on gun removal and safe storage practices.