Threat Analysis: Four Keys
Probable Cause:
Identify facts and circumstances that would lead a reasonable person to believe that an individual is committing or is attempting to commit a criminal offense (poses a threat to self and/ or others).
1. Threats due to Psychotic Delusions (fixed, false, idiosyncratic);
Examples:
“My neighbor is a space alien and is trying to kill me”
“Satan has instructed me to kill them.”
Commonly seen in: Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder with psychosis, Depression with psychosis, Drug-induced psychosis
Treatment: Secure weapons with law enforcement, antipsychotic medications, emergency civil commitment to a mental health facility, case management
2. Threats due to Extreme Overvalued Beliefs.
Look for warning behaviors.
Examples:
“I am going to be a professional school shooter.”
“The West is at war with Islam.”
“Black people are replacing White people.”
Intervention: Secure weapons with law enforcement, Treat co-occurring problems (e.g. mood, anxiety, drug use), crisis response team, unique personalized behavioral management (e.g. family, group and individual therapy), culturally appropriate case management, develop a new identity outside of overvalued beliefs.
See: parents for peace
3. Threats due to Obsessions (intrusive, unwanted thoughts). Usually pose a low risk of harm to others.
“I can’t stop thinking that I might hurt someone.”
Treatment: OCD medication, talk therapy, OCD foundation
4. Threats due to addictive/ behavioral issues, alcohol/ drugs, paraphilias, domestic violence, stalking or personality disorders (e.g. psychopathy).
Treatment: Secure weapons with law enforcement, drug rehabilitation centers, medication assisted treatment, sometimes family, individual and group therapy, crisis response team, sometimes jail or prison is the only answer
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