Preventing Gun Violence: The Role of Social Work.

This article focuses on the problem of gun violence in the United States, highlighting its uniquely high rates of gun ownership and firearm-related deaths compared to other developed countries. It outlines the legal context shaped by the Second Amendment and recent Supreme Court decisions, which complicate efforts to regulate firearms. The article emphasizes the critical role social workers can play in gun violence prevention through risk assessment, implementation of Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs), collaboration with community violence intervention workers, and advocacy for evidence-based policies. It calls for the development of specialized social work practices and cross-sector partnerships to address the multifaceted nature of gun violence, promote equity, and strengthen community well-being.