But the research on gun violence simply doesn’t support this idea. People with mental illnesses are far more likely to be the victims of violence, not the perpetrators. Only about3 to 5 percent of violent acts are attributable to serious mental illness, and most don’t involve guns. Other risk factors, like being male, being poor or unemployed, and abusing drug or alcohol, are clearer predictors of violent behavior.
One of the best predictors of future violent behavior, researchers say, is past violent behavior. And a crucial warning sign — one too often ignored — is domestic violence against intimate partners and other family members.
Millennials are clear on this, and we will not change our minds. This generation is the largest voting bloc in 2016. Our voices will be heard.
