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Mental Health and Firearms in Community-Based Surveys

Author

Listed:
  • Susan B. Sorenson

    (University of Pennsylvania)

  • Katherine A. Vittes

    (University of Pennsylvania)

Abstract

Suicide rates are higher among those who own or live in a household with a hand gun. This article examines the association between hand gun ownership and mental health, another risk factor for suicide. Data from the General Social Survey, a series of surveys of U.S. adults, are analyzed to compare general emotional and mental health, sadness and depression, functional mental health, and mental health help seeking among gun owners, persons who do not own but live in a household with a gun, and those who do not own a gun. After taking into account a few basic demographic characteristics associated with both variables, there appears to be no association between mental health and gun ownership. Nor is there any association between mental health and living in a household with a firearm. Findings suggest that the high risk of suicide among those who own or live in a household with a gun is not related to poor mental health. Implications for prevention are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Susan B. Sorenson & Katherine A. Vittes, 2008. "Mental Health and Firearms in Community-Based Surveys," Evaluation Review, , vol. 32(3), pages 239-256, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:evarev:v:32:y:2008:i:3:p:239-256
    DOI: 10.1177/0193841X08315871
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Cummings, P. & Koepsell, T.D. & Grossman, D.C. & Savarino, J. & Thompson, R.S., 1997. "The association between the purchase of a handgun and homicide or suicide," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 87(6), pages 974-978.
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    Keywords

    firearms; mental health; suicide;
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