Fewer women than men in the U.S. hold concealed handgun licenses and women who do carry them do so for self-defense and a need to feel empowered, according to a study by sociology graduate student Angela Stroud.

Stroud said her study, which involved 15 interviews with women who hold concealed handgun licenses, found that women seek the license to feel as powerful as men in a culture where women are taught to feel vulnerable.

Full story here. Including some quotes from local CHL instructor, Robert Greene.

I’m not sure how 15 interviews constitutes a representative sample, but here we are.

The main reason I wanted to comment on this article was this:

Starr-Renee Corbin, a manager for the Applied Research Laboratories who works with the Center for Women’s and Gender studies, said she carries her concealed handgun for self-defense, but does not carry it all the time.

“I leave the gun at home on a day-to-day basis and only bring it with me if I’m going on long drives through the state or feel there is an immediate threat,” Corbin said. “I wouldn’t agree that it gives you a sense of empowerment in every situation. It’s just something to have around just in case.”

But does not carry all the time. She only carries if she feels there’s a threat or on long drives.

You know, if we’re going to talk studies, data, and research… then she needs to carry her gun at all times… unless she has superpowers and can see the future. Data shows that most attacks happen in parking lots, going to/from your car to/from buildings (e.g. office, shopping mall, etc.). parking garages, etc.. Any time of day, not just in the middle of the night. These are your day-to-day activities! Why are you leaving yourself vulnerable during those very situations that have the higher likelihood of an attack occurring? Are you looking for an opportunity to say “damn, I really wish I had my gun right now!!”, or would you rather say “I’m so glad I had my gun on me!”? If you’d rather say the latter, the only way you can ensure it is to always carry.

I’m happy that Ms. Corbin has her CHL, I just wish she would carry it… always.