Oxford authors on Sandy Hook

On 14 December 2012, Adam Lanza shot and killed his mother before driving from his home to Sandy Hook Elementary School and opening fire on students and staff. Twenty children and six adults were murdered before the gunman committed suicide. Many Oxford University Press authors felt compelled to share their expertise to offer comfort, explanations, and understanding. Here’s a round-up of their recent articles on the tragedy.

UCLA Professor Emeritus Rochelle Caplan on the significant reduction in public mental health care in the United States.

Pediatric psychologist Brenda Bursch offers helpful approaches for parents to explain the tragedy to their children.

Clinical Professor of Psychiatry J. Reid Meloy on warning behaviors that precede mass violence.

Professor of Criminology Kathleen M. Heide on the parricide element of Adam Lanza’s actions.

Associate Professor of Government Elvin Lim on the different political perspectives on the massacre, essential to understanding across party lines and taking non-partisan action on the issue of gun control.

School psychologist Eric Rossen advocates for stronger mental health services in schools.

Professor of Psychiatry Donald W. Black on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of antisocial behavior.

School psychologist Robert Hull offers some advice and resources to help traumatized children.