Empowered or Traumatized? A Call for Evidence-Informed Armed-Assailant Drills in U.S. Schools

• 2023

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• Mary Beth Miotto; Robin Cogan
PMID: 37224233DOI: http://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMp2301804

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The journal article describes how armed-assailant drills in U.S. schools can help students and staff feel prepared, but they may also cause fear or trauma. The article calls for using evidence to make these drills safer and more effective. It suggests that schools should balance safety with the mental health of students and teachers, making sure drills do not harm anyone emotionally while still teaching important safety skills.

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Tags

Focus Area: Violence

Audience: Schools & Childcare Providers

Emergency Management Stage: Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Firearms; Schools; Students; United States; Violence; Evidence-Based Practice; Psychological Trauma

Institutions: Rutgers University; Mattapan Community Health Center; New Jersey State School Nurses Association

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