A new study from Boston University demonstrates that a hospital-based initiative can significantly reduce the chances of victims of gun and knife violence being reinjured or engaging in violence themselves. Conducted by researchers from the School of Public Health, the findings highlight the potential for similar programs across the United States to mitigate gun violence. According to lead researcher Jonathan Jay, the Violence Intervention Advocacy Program (VIAP) at Boston Medical Center is a promising model for cities aiming to invest in violence prevention strategies.
The VIAP offers comprehensive support services to survivors of violent incidents, addressing mental health, family support, and practical needs such as housing and employment. The study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, analyzed over 1,300 individuals between the ages of 16 and 34 who were treated for gunshot or stabbing injuries. It found that consistent engagement with VIAP could reduce the risk of re-victimization or violent behavior by up to 50 percent within two to three years after hospital discharge.
Program Effectiveness and Insights
Almost half of the participants engaged with the program within the first month post-discharge, but those who maintained regular contact—approximately 10 percent—experienced a marked decrease in the likelihood of future violence. “There’s an old saying that hurt people hurt people, and that really applies to the work we do,” said Lavon Anderson, VIAP’s housing coordinator. The program assists individuals in healing from trauma and stabilizing their lives, which Jay believes is crucial for breaking cycles of violence.
Current practices involve connecting patients with VIAP advocates during their hospital stay or shortly after. These advocates assess individual needs and provide tailored support, focusing on areas like safety planning and mental health. Many advocates themselves have lived experiences in the communities they serve, adding a layer of understanding to their work. Mental health services are delivered in collaboration with BMC’s Community Violence Response Team.
Jay notes that while some participants may only need a few visits to regain stability, the program’s success hinges on the motivation of the individuals involved. “From my experience, we see a higher success rate with participants who engage because they’re genuinely ready for change,” Anderson stated.
Broader Implications for Violence Prevention
The study’s implications extend beyond individual recovery. Jay’s research indicates that when one person opts out of violence, the ripple effect can influence hundreds of others, including family and community members. “Seeing both the scale of that impact and how engagement influences the likelihood of someone returning to harmful behavior was eye-opening,” he remarked.
VIAP distinguishes itself from other intervention programs through its extensive range of services and flexibility. It currently employs 13 staff members and does not restrict eligibility based on age or attendance frequency, making it accessible to all victims of violence treated at BMC. This approach contrasts with other programs that may limit access to specific demographics or impose strict attendance requirements.
The study aligns with a growing recognition of the need for hospital-based violence intervention programs, particularly as gun violence continues to escalate. In 2023, the United States reported nearly 47,000 gun-related deaths, underscoring the urgency for effective intervention strategies.
Jay hopes this research will bolster support for similar programs nationwide, especially as traditional preventive measures, such as gun safety legislation, face challenges in various states. “A lot of other hospitals could show these results to hospital administrators and other funders,” he noted. Anderson remains optimistic, stating, “I’m hopeful that Professor Jay’s findings will support the expansion of the program and further strengthen our work.”
The Violence Intervention Advocacy Program study received support from a Fund for a Safer Future grant and included collaboration with researchers from Boston University’s Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, and the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
