Named holidays, Black Fridays, consumerism and violence: A mythical association or an emerging outbreak of epidemic in our communities?

Seasonal affective disorders and associated depressive states are well recognized; as is the documented increase in domestic violence during the holidays. However, the ongoing economic recession is birthing an increased level of interpersonal malice and violence in our communities. This presentation uses Haddon's Matrix and a paradigm that examines social constructs that encourage versus those that limit these outbreaks of violence. Clearly personal and environmental characteristics, and behavior play a causal or mitigating role. The purpose of this presentation is to address an emerging issue that needs immediate public health attention, prevention and control. A systematic review of the available literature highlights this topical issue. Search terms included holiday violence, economic recession, interventions, Black Friday, consumerism, shopping, and an analysis of completeness of reporting of these events. Findings and Results: Reports reveal issues arising from a consumer-driven society, and the associated desperation in a depressed economy. Discussion and Conclusions: Violent and other harmful acts observed during the holidays and at “Black Friday” sales events can lead to dangerous health consequences peculiar to this time of year, including gun shot wounds; injuries from pushing, shoving, trampling, slipping/sliding, and falling; road rage, robberies, and assaults. Stress leading to anxiety states or migraines or other health conditions may arise from shoppers inability to obtain desired items or the unnatural nocturnal standing in queues or other activities required to obtain “door buster deals.” Recommendations are provided for mitigation and devising strategies to contain these adverse events, prevent/contain future violent episodes, public health must intervene now to avert future catastrophes