"Quantitative Analysis of the Impact of State Gun Laws and Gender Distr" by Celeste Marre Quinn

Date of Conferral

1-28-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Criminal Justice

Advisor

Clarence Williamson

Abstract

This quantitative, correlational study examines the impact of state gun law stringency and gender distribution among firearm possessors on illicit firearm trafficking, focusing on three key outcomes: firearm traces, perfected firearm traces, and straw purchases. In response to the pressing need to understand factors driving firearm trafficking, this research aims to inform public safety initiatives and policy strategies. Guided by deterrence theory, the study investigates how legislative strength and gender-based possession patterns influence trafficking indicators. Secondary data were analyzed using multiple linear regression to assess relationships between the IVs of state gun law stringency and gender distribution of firearm possessors and the three IVs. Analytical adjustments accounted for multicollinearity and statistical assumption violations to ensure reliable interpretations. Findings indicate that stricter gun laws are associated with lower trafficking indicators, suggesting that stringent regulations may serve as a deterrent to illicit activity. While male possessors did not show statistically significant effects, gender distribution overall played a noteworthy role, with female possessors contributing uniquely to traceability and straw purchasing patterns. The study calls for further exploration of gender-specific mechanisms influencing firearm trafficking, as well as the effects of legislative stringency on trafficking trends. The implications for social change include improved community safety and reduced gun violence, supporting social determinants of health by fostering safer environments and offering valuable insights for policymakers to craft effective firearm legislation.

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