Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-1-2025
Abstract
Introduction: Secure firearm storage has been proposed as a suicide prevention method within the military; however, secure storage practices are uncommon. Service members may perceive limited value in secure storage as a suicide prevention tool and threat-related factors may influence such perceptions. Method: A nationally representative sample of firearm-owning military service members (n = 719) was recruited between December 3, 2021 and January 4, 2022 to complete a self-report survey by Ipsos using their KnowledgePanel calibration approach to optimize representativeness. Results: Threat sensitivity was associated with less perceived suicide prevention value across all within-home storage practices as well as out-of-home storage. Defensive firearm ownership was associated with less perceived out-of-home storage value. Contrary to expectations, PTSD symptoms were associated with greater perceived suicide prevention value across all storage practices and intolerance of uncertainty was associated with greater perceived out-of-home storage value. Discussion: Perceptions of, sensitivity to, and reactions to threat represent a complicated confluence of factors that may influence firearm views and behaviors in disparate ways. Viewing the world as dangerous and other people as a threat may limit perceived suicide prevention value for secure storage and increase the drive for firearm access.
Publication Source (Journal or Book title)
Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior
Recommended Citation
Anestis, M., Bryan, C., Bryan, A., & Capron, D. (2025). Threat perceptions, defensive behaviors, and the perceived suicide prevention value of specific firearm storage practices. Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, 55 (1) https://doi.org/10.1111/sltb.13123