Why Literature Does Not Include Children in Study of Gun Culture

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Why Literature Does Not Include Children in Study of Gun Culture
In the article, The Sociology of US Gun Culture, Yamane (2017) argues that there is a need for the American gun culture to be studied through the lens of sociology. Contemporary studies on the topic have been typically approached through the lens of criminology and epidemiology. However, since most gun owners are never involved in criminal or violent situations involving guns, the two domains can only provide a partial understanding of the persistence of the gun culture. What stands out in Yamane's work is the absence of children. Children are bypassed in the study because of the sensitivity of the controversial societal association of boys, guns, masculinity, and violence.
Children's Place in the American Gun Culture
Yamane (2017) highlights three different developments that have historically underpinned the gun culture. First, during the colonies and the era of frontiers, guns were tools of necessity. Second, for most of the 20th century, guns were used for recreational purposes: shooting, hunting, marksmanship, and collection. Finally, towards the end of the 20th century into the 21st century, the gun culture has evolved into armed self-defense. Throughout the developments, Yamane (2017) does not mention the role of children in gun culture. For instance, it would be interesting to understand the role of children, especially teenagers, during the frontiers an...