Psychological Roots of Violence
by Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD
Five days after the Fort Hood shootings, trying to make sense of it all can be a challenge. Much has been learned about the alleged gunman and what led to a violent response. So what causes one individual to respond violently when others do not? Intensive studies of workplace violence and school shootings suggest several factors interact.
- Individual vulnerability. Mental illness and inappropriate coping may predispose some people to violent behavior. Alcohol and drug abuse, domestic violence, and bullying or threatening others may be manifestations of vulnerability to stress.
- Feeling marginalized by others. Seldom are rampage shooters members of the “in crowd.” Most feel isolated – even snubbed – by peers. Alienation may be especially stressful because military members prize cohesion and camaraderie.
- Overwhelmed by circumstances. Violent outbursts may seem spontaneous, but usually they are not. Powerlessness and anger build up over time. When problems overwhelm a person’s coping skills, emotion can erupt in violent or self-destructive ways.
- Perceive no other way out. People seldom act out violently unless they see no other option.
Military spouses can help prevent the escalation from frustration to violence. Understanding the roots of violence is the first step. Read Milspouse.com tomorrow to learn what Warning Signs and Signals to watch for.