Understanding the impact of firearm injuries on children and communities
Developing Trauma Networks of Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults to Examine the "Ripple Effect" of Firearm Injuries
This study looks at how gun injuries impact not just the people hurt but also their families and communities, especially kids and young adults, to understand the emotional struggles they face and find better ways to help them heal.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10786691 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how firearm injuries affect not only the victims but also their families and communities, particularly focusing on children, adolescents, and young adults. It aims to identify and describe the trauma networks formed around these incidents, which include witnesses and family members of victims. By analyzing existing healthcare and police data, the study seeks to uncover the long-term health effects experienced by those indirectly affected by firearm injuries, such as increased risks of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The goal is to improve interventions for these vulnerable populations who are often overlooked.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children, adolescents, and young adults who have been exposed to firearm injuries, either as victims or as part of the trauma network.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to firearm injuries or are outside the age range of 0-21 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better support and intervention strategies for children and families affected by firearm injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of examining trauma networks in the context of firearm injuries is relatively novel, similar studies have shown success in understanding the broader impacts of traumatic events on communities.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Magee, Lauren a — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Magee, Lauren a
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.