WASHINGTON — Following is the statement of President Rosie Phillips Davis, PhD, president of the American Psychological Association, on the shooting at the Chabad of Poway synagogue in California, killing a worshiper and wounding three others, including an 8-year-old girl:
"APA is deeply disturbed by the anti-Semitic targeting of the congregation at Chabad. This incident is part of a growing trend of hate speech and bias-fueled assaults in the United States.
“Hate crimes are unsettling and can make people feel unsafe and unwelcome in the community. Psychological science tells us that victims of bias-motivated crimes are more likely to experience post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety and anger than victims of crimes not motivated by bias. Even those not directly involved may feel psychological distress and lower self-esteem."
For people who are suffering distress or just wanting to better understand gun violence, the APA offers a variety of resources.