Abstract
This chapter builds upon the discussion that began in the previous chapter about possible gun-related legislative options to reduce mass shootings. Discussed here are the framing approaches that could be utilized to mobilize the movement. Prior to that, there will be a discussion about the role of mass shootings in prompting debates about gun policies. The role that interest groups play in the process will be detailed. The chapter then moves on to discuss a number of frames centering on gun violence that could persuade people to support tighter gun regulations: an emotional approach predicated on the human interest side of the issue; a public health angle, treating it as an illness; a rights and responsibilities frame, where the right to own a gun is coupled with a responsibility to use it safely.
TopIntroduction
The main focus of this chapter is to outline the framing approaches that may be used by GVP interest groups to persuade citizens and policymakers to support their cause. Prior to this, discussed will be the ways in which high-profile incidents of gun violence can provoke the policy debate. Fleming and colleagues (2016) maintained that mass shootings act as “focusing events,” creating a window of opportunity for policies to be discussed. The various arms of the United States government play varying roles in the process of policy-making. Interest groups have the potential to propagate gun-related legislation within the government. In particular, they work with the Legislature, which is the most effective branch of government for enacting change. Moreover, interest groups may also persuade members of the public to support their proposals (Grossman, 2008; Grossman, 2012; Hrebenar & Scott, 1982; Truman, 1951/1993).
Frames can be a tool to persuade people and change attitudes (Callaghan, 2005, p. 189). For this to occur, it is crucial the public are informed about the reality of gun violence and how it affects society. With an issue like gun violence, framing should be consistent and resonate with people in order to turn it into an issue that they are passionate about (Woodly, 2015, p. 28). Drawing upon the literature on framing (Aaroe, 2011; Chong & Druckman, 2010; Entman, 2010; Gross, 2008; Iyengar, 1991), various possible frames that could be used in the GVP movement are outlined: an emotional slant, centering on the victims of gun violence; a public health approach, viewing and treating gun violence as an illness; a rights and responsibilities approach, working with gun owners to discuss ideas and potentially draft legislation.
The first part of this chapter looks at the landscape for policy change following a mass shooting. This includes a breakdown of the political system in the United States, detailing the role interest groups play. The second half addresses three potential frames for gun violence: an emotional approach, the public health stance, and the rights and responsibilities frame. Discussed throughout is the viability of each of these approaches and their potential to persuade people about the importance of gun violence prevention. Results from interviews with GVP activists pertaining to these issues are documented throughout this chapter. In addition, relevant literature pertaining to framing, social movements and the political landscape relating to guns in America is interwoven throughout to aid contextual understanding.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Frames: These set the parameters on an issue and can be a tool to persuade people to change their thinking.
Focusing Events: Atypical and high-profile incidents that can create opportunities for policy debate.
Gun Violence Prevention: This is a term commonly used by interest groups instead of “gun control” and refers to a belief that firearms should be regulated to improve public safety.
Emotional Frame: This is an approach that focuses on the human impact of gun violence, e.g. by discussing the victims and their individual stories.
Public Health Frame: A frame centering on the idea that gun violence is an illness in society that can be prevented and treated like any other disease.
Frame Amplification: This refers to the process by which values are clarified and associated with a particular issue.
Rights and Responsibilities Frame: This approach is predicated on the notion that the right to own firearms is intertwined with a responsibility to ensure this is done in a way that does not compromise public safety.