Salience of social support for firearm carrying and storage in the USA

Firearm behaviours, including public carrying and storage practices, are significant correlates of firearm-related injuries and fatalities. While research has explored demographic, attitudinal and experiential predictors of these behaviours, the influence of social support remains underexamined.

This study investigates the relationship between social support and firearm behaviours, using data from a nationally representative survey of 8009 US adults, of whom 2541 reported access to firearms.

Findings demonstrate that higher levels of total social support were associated with decreased odds of frequent firearm carrying (OR=0.92, 95% CI 0.84 to 0.99) and unsafe firearm storage practices, such as storing firearms loaded and unlocked (OR=0.89, 95% CI 0.84 to 0.95). Increased social support was positively associated with secure firearm storage behaviours, including the use of locking devices and separate ammunition storage.

These findings highlight the role of social connections in shaping firearm behaviours, with implications for targeted public health interventions aimed at promoting safe storage and reducing firearm-related risks.