FACULTATIVE CALIBRATION OR COMPENSATION? FORMIDABILITY PREDICTS GUN OWNERSHIP IN MEN

Using an evolutionary adaptationist framework, this novel study explored the relationship between male formidability, defined as the perceived ability to impose physical costs on others, and firearm ownership or intent to own firearms. Two theoretical models were tested: the facultative calibration model, which posits that environmental cues shape traits like aggression, and the compensatory model, which suggests individuals adopt compensatory behaviors to offset perceived deficits. A total of 257 participants (74 men, 183 women; M = 21.91, SD = 7.66) completed an online survey measuring 15 variables and testing 10 main hypotheses through correlations, t-tests, and multiple regressions. Results strongly supported the facultative calibration model in men, and self-rated formidability was positively associated with both the number of firearms men intended to own and their intent to acquire culturally perceived “deadlier” firearms. Formidability remained a significant predictor even when controlling for rurality, southern identity, and conservatism, and accounted for 17% of the variance in ownership intent. The data did not support the compensatory model for men’s intent to own. Fear of crime and victimization were not significant predictors of ownership or intent among men. Additionally, men were more likely than women to report firearm ownership or intent to own firearms. Due to the sensitive nature of the topic, some inconsistencies emerged in the firearm ownership data. While many participants disclosed firearm types, fewer reported specific quantities. As a result, analyses prioritized intent to own firearms over actual ownership reports. Formidability significantly predicted (17% of the variance) intent to own firearms even when controlling for other known correlations of gun ownership, such as ruralness, southernness, and conservatism.