A new study by Sandy Hook Promise reveals that over 54% of boys aged 10 to 17 encounter “sexually charged firearm content” in online ads and social media weekly. This alarming trend connects gun ownership to themes of desirability and masculinity, raising serious concerns among parents and experts about the implications for youth behavior, especially in light of rising gun violence in schools.
Further findings indicate that boys from households with guns are more frequently exposed to such ads, with 62% reporting regular encounters. Critically, only 30% of parents are aware of this content affecting their children, highlighting a significant gap in parental knowledge regarding gun marketing. The study calls for increased advocacy for regulations to prevent such manipulative advertising targeting minors.
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