Research has found that mass shooters don’t just snap.
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| ‘Stop Violence’ |
They spend time thinking about violence and they plan, prepare, and often share indicators before their attacks. This means there are opportunities to identify someone who is on a pathway to violence – and prevent their attack.
What To Know
No single behavior means someone will commit violence, but research has identified behaviors that may indicate a person is moving towards violence.
The earlier a person’s concerning behaviors are noticed, the more options are available to get the person help.
Common Concerning Behaviors
- Comments, jokes, or threats about violent plans
- Repeated or detailed fantasies about violence
- Comments about hurting themselves or others
- Creating a document, video, suicide note, or other item to explain or claim credit for future violence
- Seeing violence as a way to solve their problems
- Unusual difficulty coping with stress
- Reduced interest in hobbies and other activities
- Worsening performance at school or work
- Increasing isolation from family, friends, or others
- Angry outbursts or physical aggression
- Increasingly troublesome interactions with others
- Obsessive interest in prior attackers or attacks
- Bizarre or unexpected change in appearance, including dress or hygiene
- Asking questions about or testing security at a possible target
- Changing vocabulary, style of speech, or how they act in a way that reflects a hardened point of view or new sense of purpose associated with violent extremist causes, particularly after a catalyzing event
What to Do
Talk to Someone You Trust
If you are worried that someone you know may be displaying concerning behaviors, the most important thing is to tell someone. fbi.gov
