Contextual themes represent significant elements of an individual’s personal circumstances and surroundings which may negatively impact their thinking and behavior.
Some of these Assessment Themes have their own body of existing research examining their impact on an individual, and prior NTAC research has found that many past attackers had experienced substantial negative experiences related to these contextual themes as well.
Gathering both positive details (e.g., caring and supportive family) and negative details (e.g., familial discord and violence) about these factors will establish the context of past, present, and impending circumstances within which the individual of concern is operating and will inform the BTAU’s intervention strategies.
Stressors • Home life • Mental health • Criminal history • Interpersonal difficulties • Lack of consequences
Central to assessing whether an individual poses a risk of targeted violence is understanding the nature of concerning behaviors commonly observed in previous attackers.
While the presence of these behaviors alone cannot predict if an individual will become violent, it will inform the final assessment and management strategies employed by BTAUs.
For example, if an assessment reveals an individual is fixated on past attackers, has grown increasingly isolated, has posted concerning violent content on social media, and has been researching upcoming public gatherings, the BTAU will need to develop the appropriate strategies to manage the risk the individual may pose toward public spaces or other potential targets.
Concerning or threatening communications • Interest in violent topics • History of violence • Stalking, harassing, or bullying • Extreme beliefs • Fixations • Behavior changes • Desperation or despair • Intense anger or aggression • Inconsistency • Planning and final acts
Find the Perfect Training Class For You
