How Close is Close to Home: An Analysis of the Uvalde Shooting and Emergency Preparedness

• In Event: Current Debates in Victimization Research: Media, Homicide, School Shootings, and Cults

Abstract

As the number of active shootings steadily increases, individuals may seek protection through individual-level emergency preparedness. Drawing on behavioral economics and psychology, Prospect Theory suggests that individuals exposed to these devastating attacks are more likely to overestimate the probability of another shooting, potentially leading to over-preparation. Does one’s physical or social proximity to the incident predict preparedness? Using data collected by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), this study aims to evaluate individual level changes in emergency preparedness in response to the Robb Elementary school shooting. Physical proximity to the shooting, prior victimization, vicarious victimization, and demographic characteristics are associated with increased preparedness. Following the Robb Elementary School shooting, respondents who share Hispanic or Latino identity with the Uvalde shooting victims reported unique increases in the likelihood of active shooting related preparedness and risk perception. These findings can inform policy regarding the media’s communication such that it maximizes warnings and resource mobilization while minimizing public fear.

Author

• Grace Phelps, University of Maryland