Exploring the Nature of the Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and the Harm of Mass Public Shootings
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2025
Keywords
adverse childhood experiences, fame-seeking, gun violence, mass shootings
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1177/10443894241299079
Abstract
We examine if adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) directly affect the amount of harm (victims and injuries) caused in mass public shootings or whether ACEs have a mediating or moderating influence on a variety of factors previously associated with the amount of harm caused in mass shootings. Using publicly available data, our results show that ACEs do not directly affect harm. In the mediation model, results indicate the number of ACEs experienced by the shooters indirectly affected the harm of the event, but only through the shooters possessing fame-seeking motivations. In the moderation model, the significant interactions show the strongest relationships between ACEs and harm for those without mental distress or life stressors or signs of crisis. Recommendations for future research and practice are offered.
Scholar Commons Citation
Fogel, Sondra J.; Bjerregaard, Beth; and Holland, Britani M., "Exploring the Nature of the Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and the Harm of Mass Public Shootings" (2025). Social Work Faculty Publications. 247.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/sok_facpub/247
