We must reach source of problem

There is considerable discussion on gun control aspects in preventing mass shootings in schools and public venues. The shooter is usually a young person and the victims are usually young. The real question though, is not the availability of guns, but what has our society done to raise children who believe that pulling a trigger on young friends or strangers is the answer to any and all of their problems. Granted, some of these shooters are mentally impaired while others appear normal.

Is it the parents, friends, bullies or school influences that cause a young person to slip off the middle of the road? Could it be that hours spent participating in violent video games or watching violent movies have desensitized them to such a degree that they no longer have a normal view of their surroundings? Yes, improve gun control through improved background checks and better control of gun availability through gun shows, pawn shops and private sales, but get to the source of the problem, the person pulling the trigger.

Mike Tastad

Lake Stevens