Gun safety has become a growing concern for parents, prompting many to inquire about firearms in the homes their children visit. A recent national study presented at the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) 2025 Meeting in Honolulu shed light on this important issue.
The study revealed that the more sources of firearm safety information parents had access to, the more likely they were to ask about guns in other households. In fact, every new source of information increased the likelihood of parents asking by 40%. Those who had received firearm safety education from various sources were significantly more likely to inquire about firearms when their children visited other homes.
Interestingly, the study found that education from other parents had the most significant impact on parents’ likelihood of asking about guns. However, information from family members, school officials, social media, and even healthcare providers also played a role in increasing the likelihood of parents initiating conversations about firearm safety.
Dr. Maya Haasz, an associate professor at Children’s Hospital Colorado and the presenting author of the study, emphasized the importance of robust firearm education for parents. She highlighted the fact that even young children as young as two years old could accidentally pull a trigger, underscoring the critical need for ongoing discussions about gun safety.
The research further emphasized the need for multifaceted education on gun safety, as firearms remain the leading cause of death among children in the United States. The survey, which involved nearly 1,600 caregivers of children under 18, highlighted the importance of promoting a culture where conversations about gun safety are the norm rather than the exception.
In conclusion, the study’s findings underscore the critical need for increased education and awareness surrounding gun safety among parents. By equipping caregivers with the necessary knowledge and resources, families can work together to create a safer environment for children. It is imperative that discussions about gun safety become a priority in communities across the country to prevent tragic incidents involving firearms.
For more information, you can refer to the abstract titled “Caregivers’ asking about firearms in homes that youth visit: A nationally representative cross-sectional survey.” This study was conducted by the American Pediatric Society and presented at the PAS 2025 Meeting.
Provided by: American Pediatric Society [Website: https://www.aps1888.org/]
