New Study Reveals Teens' Perception of Firearm Access at Home Despite Safe Storage Practices

Recent research indicates that over half of U.S. teenagers living in households with firearms believe they can access and load a firearm at home. Notably, this perception persists even in homes where parents report storing all firearms securely, unloaded, and locked. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from nearly 500 parents and their teenagers, revealing that parents' storage practices alone are poor predictors of teens' perceived access. Even in households with multiple firearms, locking up some weapons does not prevent teens from believing they can access at least one firearm if at least one remains unsecured.

These findings are significant because teens' beliefs about firearm accessibility are associated with their likelihood to attempt access and potentially carry firearms, which raises concerns given the elevated risk of firearm-related injuries and deaths among adolescents. Firearms are now the leading cause of death among children and teens in the U.S., with most incidents involving firearms owned by a parent, relative, or friend.

The study underscores the importance of viewing household firearm security not just as a matter of storage but also considering teens' perceptions and behaviors. Experts recommend comprehensive firearm safety strategies, including treating every firearm as a potential risk and fostering open conversations with teens about conflict resolution and mental health. Additionally, there is support for universal laws mandating the secure storage of all firearms in homes with children, along with routine assessments of firearm access by healthcare providers.

While the research focused on older teens aged 14 to 18, it highlights critical areas for future investigation, including perceptions among younger children and cultural variations across different communities. Addressing these issues is vital for reducing firearm-related injuries and fatalities among youth.

For more information, see the original study here: [DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.14443]

Source: [https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-teens-access-firearms-home-parents.html]