Shootings in America: the psychology of It all

Abstract

Following the assassination attempt on Donald J. Trump, a resounding question for publics everywhere concerns the shooter’s motivation. While the specifics of this case are of abiding human interest, a more general question is why shooters in America embark on their acts of heinous violence. A psychological analysis suggests that the end motivating their deeds is their quest for significance and mattering, whereas the means, gun violence, is deeply rooted in the US culture.