September 16, 2016 | Reesa Olins - School of Social Work

Social Work Researchers Say Gun Removals May Decrease Suicides

The research of Drs. Linda Frisman and Hsiu-Ju Lin, and eight other colleagues, is the focus of an Atlantic Monthly article, The Gun Law Saving Lives in Connecticut. In 1999, Connecticut became the first state to pass a law authorizing police to temporarily remove guns from individuals when there is probable cause they pose a significant risk […]

Linda Frisman

Linda Frisman
Linda Frisman

The research of Drs. Linda Frisman and Hsiu-Ju Lin, and eight other colleagues, is the focus of an Atlantic Monthly article, The Gun Law Saving Lives in Connecticut.

Hsiu-Ju Lin
Hsiu-Ju Lin

In 1999, Connecticut became the first state to pass a law authorizing police to temporarily remove guns from individuals when there is probable cause they pose a significant risk of harm to others or self.

The research is based on the article, “Implementation and Effectiveness of Connecticut’s Risk-Based Gun Removal Law: Does It Prevent Suicides?” forthcoming in Law and Contemporary Problems. The research study examined the characteristics, implementation, and outcomes of gun removals conducted in Connecticut during the period 1999-2013. This article will inform other states that are considering the adoption of similar gun-seizure laws.

Andrea Duarte, LCSW, MPH, Behavioral Health Program Manager for the DMHAS Prevention & Health Promotion Unit, was instrumental in providing the suicide data that was used for comparison. Andrea is also a frequent field instructor for School of Social Work master’s students.