"They want you to watch." James Densley and Jill Peterson write about how the prevalence of violence in the media serves terrorists' interests in spreading destruction. The widespread use of social media platforms paved the way for the mass shooting of 50 worshipers to be livestreamed on Facebook: a performance of violence for the world. Densley … [Read more...]
Terrorism is a performance. Don’t watch. And, Facebook, stop making us.
We can do more to prevent mass workplace shootings like Aurora, Illinois
Since the Columbine High School shooting in 1999, violence prevention has largely targeted schools. Lockdown drills, arming teachers, metal detectors, and evacuation plans are just some of the strategies form for schools. Meanwhile, there have been four times as many mass shootings in workplaces. There have been almost 50 workplace shooters in the … [Read more...]
School shooters usually show these signs of distress long before they open fire, our database shows
One of the biggest challenges schools face when averting school shootings is recognizing and acting upon warning signs. School shooters almost always give warning signs well before opening fire. The majority showed signs of a crisis and leaked their plans ahead of time on social media. The Violence Project's founders Jill Peterson and James … [Read more...]
Study Could Soon Bring Student Researchers Face-to-Face With Mass Shooters
Dr. Jillian Peterson and Dr. James Densley are leading a team of student researchers in studying mass shootings. A recent grant from the US Department of Justice will allow the research team to interview five living mass shooters and people from their communities. They plan to discuss their initial findings at an event on Hamline's campus. … [Read more...]
Why the usual approach to school security isn’t working
Mass shootings are becoming increasingly deadly. Recent studies have demonstrated that active shooter drills may increase anxiety and fear among students, as well as contribute to a negative school culture, which is a risk factor for school violence. Data indicates that before mass violence takes place, there is typically an immediate trigger in … [Read more...]