A Psychiatrist, a Teacher and a Pediatrician Walk into a Bar: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Active Shooter Drills in Schools-View Presentation

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Video Summary

The panel discussion, led by Dr. Margaret McKeithern and including speakers Barrett Young-Hans, Dr. Brittany Baumgardner, and Dr. Chelsea Young-Hans, addressed the impact and implications of active shooter drills in schools from multidisciplinary perspectives. The conversation highlighted significant concerns regarding the psychological and emotional impacts of these drills on students, notably inducing anxiety and stress. The ineffective nature and potential trauma induced by high-intensity active shooter simulations were emphasized. The panelists outlined the developmental limitations of children in grasping the gravity of such drills, underscoring the need for consent and accommodations for vulnerable students. Recommendations were shared from organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics, which advocate for less traumatizing and more educationally focused practices. They suggested focusing on skill training over simulating violent crises, obtaining parental consent, and involving stakeholders in drill planning.<br /><br />The Everytown for Gun Safety study was cited, showing substantial increases in stress and anxiety post-drill activities, raising questions about the broader impacts on student health. Proposals for federal and community-level interventions to enhance safety without psychological distress included implementing gun safety policies, improving secure firearm storage education, and bolstering mental health resources in schools. The effectiveness of school-based threat assessment teams was discussed as a proactive alternative. Panelists also encouraged psychiatrists to engage in advocacy and community involvement to foster safer environments. Discussions with attendees also reflected on personal experiences and challenges related to the implementation of active shooter drills, highlighting the need for continued dialogue and improvements.

Keywords

active shooter drills

psychological impact

student anxiety

trauma

developmental limitations

American Academy of Pediatrics

skill training

parental consent

Everytown for Gun Safety

mental health resources

gun safety policies

threat assessment teams

community involvement