An Experimental Examination of Dangerous Firearm-Related Behaviors

Objective:
Most research on gun violence prevention leverages epidemiological data that informs our understanding of gun violence-related phenomena at the population level. These data, however, do not provide causal evidence related to individual factors that influence real-time engagement in gun violence-related behaviors.

To address this gap, our team partnered with faculty at Florida State University to develop an experimental protocol that assesses factors that influence the propensity to reach for and discharge a firearm in an ambiguously threatening interpersonal encounter. Using a shooting simulator designed for training law enforcement and which is capable of assessing firearm accuracy at the pixel level, we utilized a series of experimental manipulations to examine the extent to which factors such as racial bias and physiological arousal influenced firearm behavior in real time.

This study is extremely novel in its methodology and its results can help us better determine what influences individuals to reach for and discharge firearms in real time. In doing so, we can then develop solutions build around addressing those drivers of risk. Furthermore, but utilizing psychophysiological assessments, we will be able to understand these factors at the brain level, expanding well beyond the limitations of self-report data.

Funded By:
New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center

Project Status:
In progress

Principal Investigator (PI):
N. Brad Schmidt, PhD

Amount Awarded:
$59,641