Utilizing Personality Assessment to Further Firearm Injury Prevention Research: An Example Investigation with the...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Criminology

Background:

• Firearm violence, particularly suicide, is a significant public health issue in the U.S.
• A multidisciplinary approach is needed for effective firearm injury prevention.
• Assessment psychologists can contribute by studying firearm owners' individual differences, perceptions, and beliefs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the relationship between personality traits, firearm ownership, and beliefs about firearms and suicide.
• To highlight the role of assessment psychologists in firearm injury prevention research.
• To encourage the development of tailored interventions for firearm-owning populations.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory study involving 99 undergraduate students (22.2% firearm owners).
• Utilized the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-3 (MMPI-3) Substantive scales.
• Examined correlations between MMPI-3 scales, firearm ownership status, and beliefs regarding firearms and suicide risk.

Main Results:

• Firearm owners in the sample showed potentially lower levels of internalizing distress compared to non-owners.
• Several internalizing scales were positively associated with the belief that home firearms and unsecured storage increase suicide risk.
• Preliminary data suggests personality differences may be linked to firearm-related beliefs.

Conclusions:

• Assessment psychologists are well-positioned to advance research on firearm injury prevention.
• Understanding individual differences among firearm owners is crucial for developing effective interventions.
• Further research is needed to explore the implications of personality assessment in firearm safety and suicide prevention efforts.