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Abstract

For this study, we closely examined public mass shooters who targeted specific women and quantitatively compared them to other shooters. Results indicate that nearly one-quarter (24%) of public mass shooters in the United States have targeted specific women, the target–offender relationship was usually romantic/sexual or familial, and 80% of the targeted women were ultimately killed. Compared to other mass shooters, perpetrators who targeted specific women more often (1) had a history of sex offending and domestic abuse, (2) were divorced/separated, (3) had experienced a recent breakup, and (4) had several other key characteristics. Implications for violence prevention and future research are discussed.

Keywords

mass shootings masculinity threat masculinity challenges intimate partner violence misogyny

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Public Mass Shooters Who Target Specific Women: An Empirical Analysis of Target–Offender Relationships,Timing,and Key Characteristics

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