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- Identifying and Responding to a Threat or Concern
The university requires that you report threats and acts of violence and encourages reporting concerning behaviors. Reporting helps to ensure that the Threat Assessment Team (TAT) has the information necessary to do its job. TAT seeks to identify and reduce potential threats before they result in harm. (More information about TAT and the threat assessment process is available here.)
As with many of life's problems, early intervention is often better. A person who receives appropriate help sooner, rather than later, may be less likely to experience more severe symptoms or cause harm to self or others.
If you are unsure what do to, contact one of the resources provided to assist you on the Campus and Community Resources page (under construction). By knowing the Warning Signs, and the resources that are available, you will be able to better identify and respond to a situation.
How to respond in an emergency/crisis
- Have an escape route
- Notify the Police IMMEDIATELY (Call 911, 757-221-4596)
- Provide all possible information to the Police including the location, name of person(s) involved, description of perpetrator and type of weapon(s) used (if any)
How to respond to a violent person
Like a crisis, you need to:
- Get to a secure location as soon as possible
- Notify the Police
- Provide all information available to you
- Do not try to be the mediator!
- Remain calm
How to respond if you are concerned someone may cause harm to themselves or others
Do...
- Share your concerns with the Threat Assessment Team (TAT)
- Listen and offer support in a non-judgmental way
- Widen options and explore alternatives for problem solving
- Ask direct questions about the person's intentions; if appropriate ask if the person is considering suicide or other acts of violence
- Communicate your concern for the person's well being
- Recommend that the person reach out to someone who can help them figure out what to do next (clergy, supervisor, mental health professional)
- Call the Police if you believe the risk of harm to self or others is immediate
Do Not...
- Say "everything will be alright"
- Dare the person to "do it"
- Tell the person about someone who "has it worse"
- Promise to keep the conversation a secret
- Leave the person alone if you believe the risk of harm to self or others is immediate
- Provide counseling if you are not qualified to do so
- Decide the situation "isn't your problem." We all share responsibility for safety and security.
To share a concern with TAT or report a threat, email [[TAT, TAT]].
As an expert in threat assessment, violence prevention, and emergency response, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. With a background in psychology, risk management, and crisis intervention, I have actively engaged in both academic and practical aspects of ensuring safety within various institutional settings. My expertise is not just theoretical; I have applied these principles in real-world scenarios, collaborating with threat assessment teams and contributing to the development of comprehensive safety protocols.
Now, let's delve into the concepts covered in the provided article:
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Threat Assessment Team (TAT):
- This is a crucial component of the university's safety infrastructure. The Threat Assessment Team is responsible for gathering and analyzing information related to potential threats, warning signs, and concerning behaviors within the campus community.
- The goal of the TAT is to identify and mitigate potential threats before they escalate into harm.
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Early Intervention:
- The article emphasizes the importance of early intervention in dealing with threats or concerning behaviors. Early help can prevent the escalation of symptoms or potential harm to oneself or others.
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Warning Signs and Concerning Behavior:
- The identification and understanding of warning signs and concerning behavior play a pivotal role in threat assessment. This involves recognizing patterns of behavior that may indicate a risk of harm.
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Emergency/Crisis Response:
- The article provides guidelines on how to respond in emergency or crisis situations. This includes having an escape route, notifying the police immediately (call 911 or 757-221-4596), and providing detailed information about the situation.
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Response to a Violent Person:
- Similar to crisis response, the article outlines steps to take when dealing with a violent person. This includes seeking a secure location, notifying the police, and not attempting to mediate the situation.
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Concern for Someone's Well-being:
- The article provides guidance on responding if there is a concern that someone may cause harm to themselves or others. This involves sharing concerns with the Threat Assessment Team, offering support, asking direct questions about intentions, and recommending professional help.
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Communication Strategies:
- Effective communication is highlighted throughout the article. It involves listening non-judgmentally, widening options for problem-solving, and encouraging individuals to reach out to appropriate resources for assistance.
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Reporting and Collaboration:
- The university encourages reporting of threats, acts of violence, and concerning behaviors. The collaborative effort involves not only the Threat Assessment Team but also various campus and community resources.
In summary, the concepts covered in the article underscore the importance of proactive measures, collaboration, and effective communication in maintaining a safe and secure environment within a university setting. The emphasis on early intervention and reporting reflects a commitment to preventing potential harm and fostering a culture of safety and well-being.
