The Association Between Gun Violence and Community Physical and Mental Health

• In Event: Violent Crime and Racial Segregation: Predictors and Collateral Consequences

Abstract

Gun violence is a prevalent urban problem that disproportionately impacts certain neighborhoods, underscoring the unequal distribution of its harmful effects across cities. Research indicates certain neighborhood characteristics, including concentrated disadvantage, racial segregation, and income inequality are associated with more neighborhood gun violence. Most research focuses on the neighborhood correlates of gun violence and less has focused on the community outcomes of gun violence, which provides a more comprehensive understanding of gun violence and its consequences. Research assessing the outcomes of gun violence indicates it leads to many negative implications for communities and their residents. Studies have shown that community violence is associated with aggression, mental distress, and poor educational outcomes among youth on an individual level. Fewer studies have focused on the community level impacts of gun violence. Therefore, the current study examines the impact gun violence has on community physical and mental health in a large southwestern city. Results and implications will be discussed.

Authors

• Lexi Gill, The University of Tampa

• Rachel Severson, The University of Tampa