There is little evidence that gun control is an effective method of preventing mass shootings . In fact, it may even create the opposite of its intended effect.

According to a Harvard Injury Control Research Center report , states with tougher gun control legislation have a greater rate of mass shootings. The study also discovered that states with rigid gun control legislation have higher overall rates of gun violence. Another study , conducted by the National Research Council, discovered that there is no convincing evidence that gun control legislation prevents mass shootings. The analysis discovered that while gun control legislation may be useful in avoiding specific types of gun violence, there is no evidence that they are effective in preventing mass shootings.

So, why is gun control not an effective way of preventing mass shootings? There are a few reasons.

For starters, mass shooters are frequently driven by a desire for vengeance or celebrity. They understand that if they carry out a mass shooting, they will almost certainly be killed by the police. Alternatively, they have decided to kill themselves. This suggests they are not afraid of going to jail or of being caught.

Second, mass shooters frequently use legally obtained firearms. According to the Gun Violence Archive, over 90% of mass shootings in 2022 will be committed with legally bought firearms. This suggests that tighter gun control regulations would not have stopped the majority of recent mass shootings.

Third, mass shooters are frequently good planners. They typically scout out their targets ahead of time, and they usually have numerous weapons and ammunition. This makes it extremely difficult to stop them even if tougher gun control laws are in place.

So, how can mass shootings be avoided? Well, there are a few solutions available right now.

First, we need to look at what makes people violent. This includes things such as impoverished circumstances and lack of opportunity. Second, we must alter our perspective on violence. We must teach our children that violence is not an acceptable solution to their problems. Culture matters. Third, we must strengthen mental health services. People suffering from life crises can be more inclined to perpetrate violence, so it is critical that they receive the necessary care. Finally, we must be ready for mass shootings. This includes things like active shooter training and having a plan in place for dealing with a mass shooting.

The solution to mass shootings is not gun control, and it is time to shift our attention to more effective solutions.

David J. Terestre served as a sergeant with the Metropolitan Police Department and is a nationally published author on public safety and policing issues.