have a permanent
hearing loss. Some typical emotional and psychological reactions to
a shooting are nightmares, anxiety, fatigue, and loss of appetite,
concentration, memory and sexual interest. These reactions may be
short-term or long-term and are common during and after a shooting.
These reactions are not
often discussed nor well known to the general public. These
reactions are seldom portrayed in movies, on TV, or discussed in the
press or media. But they are well known to combat veterans, shooting
survivors, and health professionals. Just think about how
emotionally and physically upset you may have been in a recent
heated argument or conflict. Now think about how much stronger your
reaction may be if your life is threatened such as with a gun.
The purpose of this
section is to provide the student in a classroom setting with
various options to consider when in a threatening and possible
shooting situation. Keep in mind that in a real shooting, events may
move very quickly and all the involved parties will most likely be
experiencing the fight or flight response to some degree.
In a shooting, time
will be greatly distorted. You will not have the luxury of being in
a class and coolly thinking about the options and what is the best
thing to do. The greater the perceived threat, the greater the fight
or flight response will be. For example, your heart will beat
rapidly and forcefully, your hands may shake, and you will develop
tunnel vision, especially if a gun is pointed at you (all you may
see is the barrel of that weapon).
After the shooting,
there will be a police investigation and media interest. You may
also be subject to criminal prosecution and/or a civil lawsuit
because of an alleged violation of law or improper procedure. The
facts and circumstances after the shooting will be investigated to
determine if the shooting was justified, if your guard card and
firearm permit was valid and if you complied with all appropriate
procedures and requirements.
The issues below are to
be thoroughly discussed in order to promote critical thought and
review. Instructors and students are to then consider these issues
when reviewing the cases to determine the appropriate case response.
