This is a bonus podcast episode from the Denison Forum.

Today's episode is titled, If We Prevent Bullying, Can We Prevent Mass Shooting?

It's written by Dr. Ryan Denison and narrated by Chris Elkins of the Denison Forum.

The debate regarding how best to prevent mass shootings, particularly in schools,

typically revolves around gun control and mental health issues. While both subjects play a role

and are worthy of discussion, an element that often goes overlooked is the triggering effect

of trauma. As Shayla Dewan writes, for the New York Times, about half of all Americans will

experience mental health issues at some point in their lives, and the vast majority of people

with mental illness do not kill. I would add that the same principle is overwhelmingly true

for those who own guns, Treating every gun owner or person

with mental health struggles as a potential mass murderer will only increase division while still not

preventing most of the tragic shootings that plague the nation far too often. Many experts argue

our energy would be best spent on focusing more on warning

signs that occur whether or not actual mental illness is present, including marked changes

in behavior, demeanor or appearance, uncharacteristic fights or arguments, and telling

others of plans for violence. Those indicators are particularly

problematic when they occur in conjunction with instances of trauma or distress. While that may

sound like common-sense steps any rational person would take, mass shooters often exhibited such

warning signs that went unchecked.

Paying extra attention and giving greater care to those who have recently lost a loved one,

been fired from a job, or experienced some other life-altering event,

could do more to prevent the next mass shooting than any new gun laws or mental health initiatives.

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