Purdue Research Shows Benefit to Having Guns in Schools

Published on April 30, 2014
Duration: 7:19

Research from Purdue University's Homeland Security Institute suggests that implementing concealed carry policies for staff and employing School Resource Officers (SROs) can significantly reduce casualties and response times during active shooter events. The study modeled various scenarios, indicating that a combination of SROs and concealed carry staff yields the greatest benefits. The research emphasizes using data to inform policy decisions regarding school safety.

Quick Summary

Purdue University research indicates that combining School Resource Officers with concealed carry staff can significantly reduce casualties and response times during active shooter events. Modeling showed a 10-15% reduction in casualties with concealed carry alone, and even greater benefits when SROs are also present, leading to the fewest casualties and lowest response times.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Purdue Research
  2. 00:22Research Focus: Active Shooter Response
  3. 00:44Scenarios Studied: Locked Doors, SROs, Concealed Carry
  4. 01:23Baseline: Locked Doors Only
  5. 01:40Impact of School Resource Officers
  6. 02:24Concealed Carry in Schools: Findings
  7. 03:22Combined SRO and Concealed Carry
  8. 03:53Data-Driven Policy Decisions
  9. 04:51Ongoing Research: Risks vs. Benefits
  10. 05:34Further Training and Active Defense
  11. 06:12Conclusion: Data Over Emotion
  12. 06:22Publication Status and Future Research

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Purdue University research find about the effectiveness of concealed carry in schools?

Purdue University research modeled scenarios where 5-10% of staff had concealed carry. In a conservative approach, these individuals sheltered in place and engaged the shooter upon entry. This resulted in a 10-15% reduction in casualties and a similar reduction in response time compared to scenarios without armed staff.

How do School Resource Officers impact active shooter response times and casualties?

Introducing a School Resource Officer (SRO) into an active shooter scenario can reduce response times by approximately 20-25% and decrease casualties by at least two-thirds. This is based on extensive simulations modeling various shooter and school behaviors.

What is the most effective strategy for reducing casualties in school active shooter events, according to Purdue research?

The research indicates that the greatest reduction in casualties and response times occurs when schools combine the presence of a School Resource Officer with a percentage of staff trained and authorized for concealed carry. This layered approach maximizes the probability of early engagement with the shooter.

What is the primary goal of the Purdue University research on school safety?

The primary goal is to provide policymakers with data-driven insights to make informed decisions about school safety strategies. The research aims to move the conversation beyond emotional responses by scientifically comparing the risks and benefits of various measures, including concealed carry and SROs.

Related News

All News →

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from NRA

View all →