Gun Deaths Reach Alarming High, Sparking Debate Over Media’s Role

Gun violence claimed 46,728 lives in the United States last year—the third-highest number of firearm-related deaths ever recorded. Research suggests that the portrayal of gun violence in TV shows, movies, and news stories may contribute to a “contagion effect,” potentially inspiring further acts of violence. In this Expert Q&A, researchers Paul Boxer and Eric Dubow from the Institute for Social Research discuss how violent media can influence instances of gun violence.