Suicide and violence risk in law enforcement: practical guidelines for risk assessment, prevention, and intervention

Abstract

Research and anecdotal reports indicate that suicide and violence risk may be higher among members of law enforcement than those in other occupational categories. This article examines the phenomenon of suicide and violence risk within this population, and law enforcement cultural variables that may contribute to elevated risk. Suicide and violence risk factors and clues unique to law enforcement are described, as are intervention approaches which may be helpful to managing and reducing risk. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

School Violence and Primary Prevention

“…It has been noted that children who display aggressive behaviors on school grounds have often seen or experienced physical aggression or violence within the home (Dwyer et al, 1998;Mohandie et al 2000). It has been found that children involved in aggressive or bullying behaviors were 2.2 times more likely to suffer from child abuse than their peers who did not display bullying behaviors (Dake et al, 2003).…”

“…When an adult is not readily available or present in the home, it is likely that the child is not consistently punished for aggressive behaviors. Inconsistent discipline not only demonstrates a tolerance for aggression by the parents but also reinforces the inappropriate actions of the child (Connolly & O'Moore, 2003;Bernstein & Watson, 1997;Mohandie et al 2000;NASP, 2002).…”

“…With the group standing behind him or her, personal responsibility for the inappropriate behaviors is often diffused (Mohandie et al 2000). Some of these groups can be identified as official gangs or hate groups.…”

“…Research (Mohandie et al 2000) has shown that children who grow up in impoverished families and neighborhoods have an increased likelihood of engaging in aggressive and/or violent behaviors. Within these areas, the unemployment rate is high and they lack the resources that could offer needed assistance to families.…”

“…Being surrounded by substandard schools and housing facilities contributes to feelings of hopelessness and the belief that society does not care about their needs. Violence then becomes an expression of the anger, frustration, and alienation that these children struggle with on a daily basis (Prevention Institute, 2006;Mohandie et al, 2000).…”