There is something that most, if not all, kids have in common, whether they are children or even adults: an inexplicable passion for weapons. Some argue that this fascination, along with access to real or toy weapons, is combined with lethal consequences. This belief is based on the unproven concept that children tend to mature with less appreciation for the lives of others. On the other hand, there are those who don't see the combination as a problem. These people understand that there is an associated danger, but that comes more from the wielder's pre-installed mental state. Most who support this position on firearm safety in children would agree that firearms are important parts of American culture and it would be unconstitutional to limit their availability to the general public. Although the combination of children and firearms has been proven to be dangerous, it is understandable to believe that the firearm is just a tool. It is rather the lack of knowledge given to children regarding firearms that makes the combination so deadly at times. The responsibility lies not with uneducated children, but with adults who provide weapons to children but do nothing to inform them. The use of guns is part of American culture. Hunting animals, honoring people (21-gun salute), and self-defense are some common justifiable uses for firearms in the United States. Firearms are also featured in various forms of entertainment, particularly films, Internet videos, and television programs. Children are most commonly exposed to firearms through these formats, which downplay the severity and consequences of gun violence. Understandably, children enter the real world after watching so many visually engaging programs involving firearms, emulating... middle of paper... those who have the power and authority to create change to take action. and understand this truth. Works Cited Howard, Patricia Kunz. “Parental Beliefs About Children and Gun Safety.” Pediatric Nursing 31.5 (2005): 374-379. Premier of academic research. Network. 7 April 2014.Obeng, Cecilia. "Should Gun Safety Be Taught in Schools? Teacher Perspectives." Journal of School Health 80.8 (2010): 394-398. Premier of academic research. Network. April 9, 2014. Bushman, Brad J., et al. “Trends in Gun Violence in Film.” Pediatrics 132.6 (2013): 1014-1018. Premier of academic research. Network. March 25, 2014Poe, Richard. The Seven Myths of Gun Control: Reclaiming the Truth About Guns, Crime, and the Second Amendment. Roseville, CA: Forum, 2001. Print.Holland, Penny. Here we don't play with weapons: war, weapons and superhero games in the early years. Maidenhead, England: Open UP, 2003. Print.