Citation

Baranauskas AJ. Justice Q. 2020; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07418825.2020.1849360

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Proposals to arm teachers with guns have emerged in reaction to high-profile school shootings in the United States. Though controversial, these proposals have gained the support of various policymakers and special-interest groups. Public opinion, however, is largely divided on the issue and split on political lines. This study seeks to unpack the reasons why Americans may support arming teachers, drawing from multiple theoretical perspectives.

FINDINGS indicate support for the culture conflict perspective, with conservative respondents being more likely to support arming teachers and Black respondents and those who are more educated and have higher incomes less likely to support arming teachers. While instrumental concerns such as economic pessimism and anger at the country's direction are associated with less support, those with children are more likely to support arming teachers.

FINDINGS on the role of feelings toward law enforcement on arming teachers are mixed. Implications for policy and research are discussed.

Language: en

Keywords

arming teachers; gun attitudes; Public opinion; school violence