Along with physician education in depression recognition and treatment, restricting lethal methods is an effective suicide prevention strategy. The present study surveyed a random sample (N = 697) of Ohio licensed social workers regarding client firearm assessment and safety counseling. Analyses sought to determine what independent factors would predict the probability that a social worker would hold positive attitudes regarding firearm risk assessment and counseling. Findings indicated that prior training and reporting from an urban area significantly increased the odds (p < .05) of registering more positive attitudes toward firearm assessment and safety counseling by 91.1% and 44.7%, respectively. Training mental health professionals in firearm assessment and safety counseling is an important aspect in addressing the reduction of suicide by this means.
Suicide and Firearm Means Restriction: Can Training Make a Difference?
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Suicide and Firearm Means Restriction: Can Training Make a Difference?
Category: Suicide|Journal: Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior|Author: K Slovak, T Brewer|Year: 2010