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An expanding literature highlights the prevalence of inappropriate and concerning behaviors toward politicians, particularly by mentally ill, fixated individuals. However, little is known of the risk posed to the "frontline" staff of politicians who are often the first point of contact for these unstable individuals. This study examined the extent to which the harassment of political figures is also experienced by staff who work in the constituency offices. It investigated the prevalence and characteristics of threats and other concerning behaviors toward staff at electoral and ministerial offices across the state of Queensland, Australia. An anonymous survey was distributed to office staff and 67% of respondents reported experiencing at least 1 form of harassment. The most common of these included inappropriate telephone calls, threatened legal action, threats to harm the staff member, loitering outside of the workplace, and unwanted approaches. Respondents frequently indicated that these behaviors had caused them emotional discomfort. In 48% of cases the harasser was thought to have a mental illness. These findings highlight the vulnerability of constituency office staff to these intrusions, the importance of formal training and security procedures in constituency offices, and the need for a referral pathway for mentally ill, fixated individuals.

Research in western nations has found that pathologically fixated individuals pose a risk of serious harm to public figures, and that many of these fixated persons are mentally ill and require treatment. Over the past decade, integrated fixated threat assessment agencies have been established in western Europe and Australia to specifically assess and manage this group. The current study examines 400 consecutive referrals to a fixated threat assessment center in Queensland, Australia, with a particular focus on the mental health and risk profile of those who engage in inappropriate contact with public office holders. It considers the high proportion of delusional disorders in this cohort, and their identification and management by psychiatric services. The authors conclude with a discussion of the mental health response to this group and impediments to mitigating the risks posed by fixated persons. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

This novel diversionary model for assessing and intervening with concerning, fixated persons at major events proved effective in mitigating the risk posed by these individuals. It also highlighted the need for police, security and mental health services to consider the fixated in major event planning, for the safety of the event, the public and vulnerable mentally ill, fixated persons.