Enhancing Concealed Carry Permits: The Role of Soft Skills in Gun Training

The debate over whether concealed carry permit applicants should be required to undergo training that focuses on improving their people-skills, de-escalation, and negotiation techniques, rather than solely on drawing and shooting from a concealed carry position, is gaining traction. This article explores the necessity and impact of such training, addressing the common misconceptions and practical implications.

The Debate and Pop Quiz

The question often posed is: should a concealed carry permit applicant have training in de-escalation techniques or negotiation skills, or should they simply focus on drawing and shooting with a weapon in a concealed carry position? This debate is highlighted by a hypothetical scenario where a man threatens your partner with a gun, forcing a split-second decision. Commentators and gun rights advocates argue that both types of training are crucial, with some emphasizing the importance of acting quickly and decisively to protect oneself and others, while others argue for a more nuanced approach involving soft skills.

Cost and Accessibility

One of the primary arguments against requiring such comprehensive training is the cost. Training programs that include both hard and soft skills would undoubtedly be more expensive, potentially making the concealed carry permit accessible only to those who can afford it. This raises concerns about social equity and the potential for wealthier individuals to have a greater advantage in terms of safety and self-defense.

Myths and Realities

A significant portion of the debate centers around common misconceptions. For instance, there is a prevalent belief that legal gun owners with proper permitting are dangerous to the general public. However, statistics and real-world evidence suggest that this is not true. The incidence of misused weapons by individuals with valid concealed carry permits is exceedingly rare.
In states like Missouri, the course for obtaining a concealed carry permit covers topics such as lawful carry, elements of defense, and the legal conditions under which a person may use lethal force. These courses aim to educate permit holders on both the legal and practical aspects of firearm use, but they do not typically include soft skills training.

The Need for Soft Skills

Despite the arguments against requiring soft skills training, many experts believe that such training can be highly beneficial. The typical encounter where the need for an armed response arises involves dealing with criminals. Most people who commit violence are not interested in negotiation; they seek money, credit cards, or other material gains. Displaying a firearm often deters such individuals from further violence. Soft skills training can help permit holders navigate these situations more effectively and avoid unnecessary conflict.

Accessibility and Resources

Even if soft skills training is not required, making these resources available is important. In areas where there is a shortage of instructors, online resources could be a viable solution. For instance, in states like rural Kansas, where there may be fewer local instructors, online training modules could be a useful supplement. Providing free lessons in de-escalation techniques and other soft skills can enhance the overall safety and preparedness of permit holders, without imposing a financial burden.

Conclusion

The debate over whether concealed carry permit applicants should be required to undergo training in soft skills is complex and multifaceted. While there are valid concerns about the cost and potential inequities, the benefits of such training cannot be ignored. A balanced approach that combines hard skills with soft skills can provide gun owners with a more comprehensive and effective tool for self-defense and safety, ultimately contributing to a safer and more informed community.

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