- Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Mass killings have become a tragic and all too common occurrence in American society. In recent years, there have been numerous mass shootings in schools, churches, workplaces, and other public places. These events have left a deep scar on the American psyche and have raised important questions about the public perception of mass killings.
Purpose of the Study
This literary review will examine the public perception of mass killings in America. It will explore the following questions:
- How does the public define mass killings?
- What are the perceived causes of mass killings?
- What are the perceived consequences of mass killings?
- How has the public perception of mass killings changed over time?
- Literature Review
The public perception of mass killings is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. There is no single answer to the question of how the public defines mass killings. However, some common definitions include:
- The killing of four or more people in a single event
- The killing of multiple people in a public place
- The killing of multiple people by a single perpetrator
The perceived causes of mass killings are also complex and varied. Some common perceived causes include:
- Mental illness
- Social isolation
- Bullying
- Exposure to violence
- Easy access to firearms
The perceived consequences of mass killings are equally complex and varied. Some common perceived consequences include:
- Trauma and grief for victims’ families and friends
- Increased fear and anxiety among the public
- A decline in public trust in institutions
- A decrease in social cohesion
The public perception of mass killings has changed over time. In the past, mass killings were seen as rare and isolated events. However, in recent years, mass killings have become more common and have occurred in a wider range of settings. This has led to increased public awareness and concern about mass killings.
Hypotheses
Based on the literature review, the following hypotheses can be proposed:
- The public is likely to define mass killings as the killing of four or more people in a single event, or the killing of multiple people in a public place.
- The public is likely to perceive mental illness as a major cause of mass killings.
- The public is likely to perceive trauma and grief for victims’ families and friends, and increased fear and anxiety among the public as major consequences of mass killings.
- The public is likely to believe that the public perception of mass killings has become more negative in recent years.
III. Method and Design
This study will use a mixed-methods approach to data collection and analysis. The quantitative data will be collected through a survey of the general public. The survey will ask respondents to define mass killings, identify the perceived causes and consequences of mass killings, and assess the public perception of mass killings over time.
The qualitative data will be collected through a series of case studies of mass killings. The case studies will examine the public discourse surrounding specific mass killings, including media coverage, social media posts, and public opinion polls.
The quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical methods such as descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. The qualitative data will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common themes and patterns in the public discourse.
- Conclusion
This study will provide insights into the public perception of mass killings in America. The findings will have important implications for policymakers, practitioners, and the public.
Case Studies
The following case studies could be used to collect qualitative data on the public perception of mass killings in America:
- The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting (2012)
- The Las Vegas shooting (2017)
- The Parkland, Florida shooting (2018)
- The El Paso shooting (2019)
- The Uvalde, Texas shooting (2022)
Data Analysis
The quantitative data could be analyzed using the following statistical methods:
- Descriptive statistics to summarize the data and identify trends
- Correlation analysis to examine the relationships between different variables
- Regression analysis to identify factors that predict public attitudes towards mass killings
The qualitative data could be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common themes and patterns in the public discourse. Thematic analysis is a qualitative research method that involves identifying, analyzing, and reporting patterns (themes) within data.
Conclusion
This study will provide insights into the public perception of mass killings in America. The findings will have important implications for policymakers, practitioners, and the public.
