Scale Description

The Attitudes Toward Guns and Violence Scale (ATGAVS-23) is a psychometric tool designed to assess individuals’ attitudes toward guns and violence. The scale consists of 23 questions that explore perceptions, feelings, and behaviors related to the use of guns and involvement in violent actions. The ATGAVS-23 is often used in studies investigating the causes and consequences of gun-related violence and the differences among various social and demographic groups.

Data Analysis and Usage

Data collected through the ATGAVS-23 scale are analyzed to understand trends and factors influencing attitudes toward guns and violence. Researchers use this information to investigate the relationships between gun acceptance, involvement in violent actions, and other social variables. Analyses include statistical methods such as factor analysis and hypothesis testing to understand underlying structures and correlations.

Objective

The primary objective of the ATGAVS-23 is to measure and understand individuals’ attitudes toward guns and violence. This understanding can help researchers, policymakers, and educators develop policies and intervention programs that reduce violence and promote safety within communities. The scale can also be used to evaluate changes in attitudes following educational interventions or social campaigns.

Calibration

The calibration of the ATGAVS-23 scale includes a range from “Strongly Agree” to “Strongly Disagree” for each statement. Participants are asked to rate their level of agreement or disagreement, providing an overall picture of their attitudes. The results of the scale are used to categorize individuals based on their acceptance or rejection of guns and violence.

Bibliography

Shapiro, J. R., & Dorman, C. (2002). Development and validation of the Attitudes Toward Guns and Violence Questionnaire (AGVQ) in a juvenile population. Psychological Assessment, 14(4), 505-510.

Slovak, K., & Singer, M. I. (2001). Gun violence exposure and trauma among rural youth. Violence and Victims, 16(4), 389-400.

Hemenway, D., & Miller, M. (2000). Firearm availability and homicide rates across 26 high-income countries. Journal of Trauma, 49(6), 985-988.

Spano, R., & Bolland, J. (2013). The impact of exposure to gun violence fatality on adolescent weapon carrying. Social Science Research, 42(2), 469-481.

Webster, D. W., & Wintemute, G. J. (2015). Effects of policies designed to keep firearms from high-risk individuals. Annual Review of Public Health, 36, 21-37.