Why Have Mass Shootings Become More Prevalent in the United States in Recent Years?

Mass shootings in the United States have increased significantly in recent years, presenting a pressing public safety crisis. This thesis, "Why Have Mass Shootings Become More Prevalent in the United States in Recent Years?" written by Blake Hillawi, argues that the convergence of three primary factors – firearm accessibility, mental health challenges, and evolving social and cultural dynamics – has fueled this disturbing trend in the early 21st century. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach that combines case studies, expert interviews, and quantitative data analysis, this study examines how these factors interact to create an environment where mass shootings have become more prevalent. Weaknesses in gun regulations allow individuals with violent intent to obtain powerful firearms, while systemic failures in mental health care leave many potential perpetrators untreated. Simultaneously, the rise of social media and online echo chambers has facilitated radicalization and social isolation, further exacerbating the crisis. By demonstrating how these elements reinforce one another, this research provides a comprehensive analysis of the root causes of mass shootings and offers evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, law enforcement, and mental health professionals. The findings underscore the urgent need for a new approach to prevention, addressing not only gun laws and mental health interventions, but also the broader societal conditions that contribute to mass shootings.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Arts

Level thesis:degree_level

masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Political Science

Department dc:contributor.department

Political Science

Grantor dc:publisher

Virginia Tech

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Hillawi, Blake B.

Chair dc:contributor.committeechair

• Avey, Paul C.

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Koch, Bettina
• Dixit, Priya

• mass shooting
• terrorism
• terror
• mass
• shooting
• shootings
• crime
• mental
• health
• social
• media

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Language dc:language.iso

en

Dc Identifier Other

vt_gsexam:43293

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/134965