Abstract

In 2022, there were forty-two mass school shootings, a record that surpassed the previous years. As of April 2023, there have already been fourteen school shootings that have resulted in injury or death. Each year, the frequency of mass school shootings and the number of victims continue to rise. Regarding the shooters' characteristics, some have reported a history of mental illness, instability within the home, poor academic performance, and more. In the United States (U.S.), one out of five children and adolescents are diagnosed with mental health disorders (Brookman, 2017). This study will examine four significant perpetrators that committed mass school shootings in the U.S. between 1991 and 2022. Through a systematic review, it will attempt to inspect common characteristics and warning signs relating to poor mental health. In addition, this study will discuss the importance of utilizing Mental Health Screenings (MHS) to assist in prevention and interventions within schools. Many adults with mental illness were once children and adolescents with emerging poor mental health. When detected early, treatment can be administered to prevent lifelong suffering and dangerous outcomes. With the implementation of MHS, schoolteachers and counselors can refer and provide necessary psychological services to promote positive mental health and early intervention, two key variables that may play a crucial role in reducing the frequency of mass school shootings in America.

Thesis Completion

2023

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Raymonde, Neal

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Psychology

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

5-15-2023

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Included in

Psychology Commons

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