Exploring the Effect of Mental Health Issues on State Level Gun Homicide and Suicide

• In Event: Looking Down the Barrel: Analyses of Gun Issues in America

Abstract

The current study explores the geographic pattern of firearm death, and more specifically, on homicide and suicide. While the geographic typology does play a significant role in this relationship, it would be unwise to state that it is the sole cause. It has been suggested that increased firearm sales could result in a higher death rate; however, little research examines the complex relationship between firearms and issues of mental health. A more complete understanding as to the relationship between firearms, geography, and gun death serves as the ultimate goal for this and future research. Additional research into the interconnectedness of geography and gun-related homicides and suicides need to be conducted in order to gain a better understanding of this concept. The current study examines data from the National Instant Check System (NICS) as well as state level data on gun death drawn from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and mental health information from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Authors

• Cheryl Johnson, Radford University

• Nicole Hendrix, Radford University