NCJ Number
196121
Journal
Journal of Police Negotiations Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Dated: 2001 Pages: 35-40
Editor(s)
James L. Greenstone Ed.D.
Date Published
2002
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article contains an overview of mental patients to aid negotiators and other law enforcement personnel in dealing effectively with these individuals in crisis situations.
Abstract
In order to make a determination as to appropriate action, law enforcement, negotiators, and other emergency services personnel need to evaluate mental status, mental retardation, and the presence of psychoactive substances in subjects in crisis situations. There are four major categories of mental disorder described herein: organic or clinically observable brain impairment, neurotic disorders, psychotic disorders, and personality disorders. Additionally, mental retardation is discussed, subjects being described as usually easily led and not usually violent; personality disorders are described as pervasive and inflexible types of impairment; and psychoactive substances are identified as those drugs that have an ability to alter the functioning of the brain. Hallucinogens, marijuana, tranquilizers, heroin amphetamines, cocaine, solvents, and their signs of usage are given, plus general physical and environmental indications are given to indicate the subject is a drug user. Included herein is a questionnaire, designed to indicate if there is a need for a psychiatric or psychological consultation, with a mental health checklist to be given to the subject by the officer. This article is intended as a supplement, and not to replace good training of and good judgement on the part of the law enforcement officer when dealing with suspected mentally impaired individuals. References