As a family doctor, I am expected to have answers when asked about tragedies like the school shooting in Littleton, Colorado, and other similar incidents. The Columbine shooting was a milestone in my life as at the same time I came across the psychological material I use in almost all my writing. It was remarkable that the psychologist explained in detail why that shooting and all subsequent shootings took place.
The key issue is not just about implementing more security or arming teachers, but addressing the underlying problem of hurting people, particularly our children, so they do not harm others.
The concept of a "compass of hurt" helps us understand how individuals respond to pain. There are four main responses: withdrawal, attacking others, attacking oneself, or avoiding the situation. However, these responses only mask the hurt; they do not address it. The fifth way is to examine and understand the hurt, its origins, and deal with it directly.
During adolescence, individuals are more vulnerable to feeling hurt, and seeking love and support from parents, siblings, and peers. It is the influence of those they deeply care about, not media or entertainment, that shapes their behavior. Creating an environment where emotions can be expressed openly is crucial.
However, addressing the issue of hurting others through education alone is not enough. We must also address the proliferation of guns. Since Columbine, the number of guns in the US has increased significantly. Stemming the tide of gun violence is essential to prevent further tragedies.
Blaming parents alone is not productive. We must collectively care about each other's pain. Isolation and hurt can lead to withdrawal, which may escalate into an attack on others. Creating a compassionate and supportive environment is crucial.
In conclusion, understanding the tragedy in Littleton and other shootings requires addressing the core issue of processing hurt. Education about not hurting others is essential, but it must be accompanied by efforts to stem the tide of gun violence. By fostering compassion and support, we can create a safer and more empathetic society.
Some more detail can be found here