Gun Carrying: Teens vs. Adults Over 25 Years

Did you know that most gun homicides in the US involve handguns? But what about who carries these guns and why? Research spanning 27 years in Chicago reveals some surprising facts. When it comes to carrying concealed guns, teens and adults follow different paths. Teens often do it because they've seen or experienced gun violence, and it's usually a temporary thing. Adults, on the other hand, make it a habit, not always linked to personal experiences. Starting to carry a gun early can lead to using it later in life, but how and why differs between those who started as teens and those who waited until adulthood. This study sheds light on the unique journey of gun carrying from adolescence to adulthood and has important takeaways for understanding gun use and policy. It's not just about the numbers, but the stories behind them. Imagine a teen who witnesses a shooting and decides to carry a gun for protection. Their journey might be short-lived, with the urge fading as they age. Now think of an adult who makes a lifestyle choice to carry a gun, perhaps for a sense of security, regardless of personal experiences with violence. Both start with a gun, but their reasons, behaviors, and outcomes are worlds apart.