Final answer:
The close-knit, small-town nature of the communities where these school shootings took place led to the belief that social safety systems were in place. However, this is an example of social disorganization theory, where crime is more likely to occur in communities with weak social ties and the absence of social control.
Step-by-step explanation:
The close-knit, small-town nature of the communities where these school shootings took place led school personnel to believe that social safety systems were in place as well. This is an example of social disorganization theory.
Social disorganization theory asserts that crime is most likely to occur in communities with weak social ties and the absence of social control. In this case, the close-knit nature of the small towns led to the belief that social safety systems were in place, but they were actually lacking or ineffective, resulting in the occurrence of school shootings.
For example, community members may have assumed that because they knew their neighbors and trusted them, there would be a sense of security and protection within the community. However, the lack of effective social control and support systems made it easier for individuals to carry out acts of violence.