Attitudes of New York City High School Students Regarding Firearm Violence

Abstract

Objectives. To assess prevalence of gun possession, attitudes regarding gun possession and gun violence, knowledge and influences of gun violence, and the potential role of physicians in gun violence prevention education among adolescents. Methods. An anonymous questionnaire was distributed to 9th through 12th grade high school students at 3 public high schools in New York City. Results. Three hundred forty-two surveys were distributed and returned. The prevalence of guns in the homes was 19.6%. Of respondents, 43.2% thought it was okay for anyone to have guns, and 57.3% had been injured or have had a relative injured by a gun. Although 11.6% of adolescents had felt the need to talk to an adult about guns, only 3.0% listed their physicians as one of these adults. However, if asked by their physician, 63.8% would discuss the issue with them. Only 5.7% of adolescents have had a physician speak to them about guns. Conclusions. The adolescent population surveyed is frequently exposed to gun violence. Although physicians rarely counsel adolescents regarding gun violence and firearm safety, many adolescents would be receptive to this mode of intervention.adolescence, attitude, firearm ownership, firearm violence, physician role.