Introduction
Gun violence is a public health burden worldwide since it leads to preventable death and disability. In addition to the preventable deaths, the spectrum of adverse effects of gun violence extends beyond the physical consequences. The American population is affected by the widespread use of violence with firearms in mass institutions and public places (Metzl et al., 2021). The article by Webster (2022), “Public Health Approaches to Reducing Community Gun Violence,” is chosen as the material for analysis in this paper. The article helps evaluate public health methods to combat gun violence and understand the nurse’s role in this necessary intervention.
Article Discussion
The primary public health strategies to combat gun violence should be based on preventive measures. Webster (2022) conducts a descriptive analysis of the factors that influence the formation of a violent pattern of behavior in a society. The researcher concludes that gun violence is the riskiest to happen in regions with low incomes and weak government regulation (Webster, 2022).
The most effective way out of the deteriorating situation is to focus public health efforts on minimizing the unsafe environment (Webster, 2022). A significant influence, according to Webster (2022), is the abuse of alcohol and other psychotropic substances, as well as the easy availability of weapons. Thus, the policy of creating a safe environment that deters violent manifestations should become the basis for combating violence.
Article Strengths
The strength of this article is that it provides a comprehensive look at the problem of gun violence. The author sees the need for a system-wide effort to combat this social phenomenon (Webster, 2022). A collaborative effort between the police system and public health may indeed be an effective intervention to reduce gun violence (Webster, 2022). The author logically summarizes and substantiates this conclusion, presenting arguments favoring his position. A noteworthy mention is the system’s responsibility for provoking violent cases.
For example, the author argues in favor of the negative impact of racial bias on the increase in the number of violent crimes in general (Webster, 2022). In addition, the author identifies two main reasons for the increase in gun violence: alcohol abuse and a large number of abandoned and vacant housing (Webster, 2022). This leads to the conclusion that public health should pay attention to the problem of homeless and addicted people as a preventive measure.
Article Weaknesses
Despite describing the spectrum of the problem of gun violence, the article has weaknesses, the main of which is the lack of focus on intervention by the health system. Predominantly, Webster (2022) focuses on the effort law enforcement requires. In addition, the role of the intervention, which is not aimed at identifying potential cases but at the complex work necessary to carry out with victims of violence, is not indicated.
Webster (2022) mentions effective strategies to reduce violence and promote public welfare. However, these strategies are not concrete plans or steps to action. In general, the article under consideration is more a generalization of possible measures than a practically applicable plan that would make it possible to change the situation radically.
Article Bias
The article “Public Health Approaches to Reducing Community Gun Violence” may be biased. Although the author mentions the negative impact of racial prejudice, the mention of addictions and homelessness as risk factors can negatively influence public perception (Webster, 2022). As a future nurse, I do not support prejudice against people who experience difficulties in life. However, I understand that the rising level of violence may be due to the risk factors mentioned. I conclude that I need to pay more attention to people’s situations and observe them to contribute to the early detection of potential crimes.
Article Findings
The findings of this article provide insight into the nurse’s role in an intervention to prevent gun violence. Firstly, Webster (2022) provides the statistical information needed to understand the magnitude of a societal problem. In addition, the author mentions a common strategy for collaborative efforts to reduce the preventable victims of such violent crimes. The nurse must become active in the healthcare team to make a difference.
Other researchers can confirm this conclusion: Cipriano et al. (2021) also note the importance of nurse intervention in violence reduction policies. Nurses have the opportunity to promote change at the state level and legitimate initiatives and pay attention to risk factors for reducing gun violence in the community. Nurses must be recognized as part of a joint effort to reduce violence and promote community well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, gun violence is a common occurrence that negatively affects the entire society. The consequences of gun violence are both death and injury and damage to mental health. The most effective control strategy is a joint effort by public health and law enforcement. Nurses play a significant role in this intervention as part of a collaborative preventive effort. Nurses must work with risk factors, promote legitimate initiatives, and act as actors of change at the state level to achieve a community without violence.
References
Cipriano, P. F., Blanchard, K. A., & Rosa, W. E. (2021). Preventing violence to achieve peaceful and inclusive societies: Nurses can play a vital role, not only in their communities, but also in their workplaces. The American Journal of Nursing, 121(9), 58-63. Web.
Metzl, J. M., Piemonte, J., & McKay, T. (2021). Mental illness, mass shootings, and the future of psychiatric research into American gun violence. Harvard Review of Psychiatry, 29(1), 81-89. Web.
Webster, D. W. (2022). Public health approaches to reducing community gun violence. Daedalus, 151(1), 38-48. Web.