Police training in domestic crises: A suburban approach

Abstract

This paper discusses an intervention method that was presented to develop joint police-mental health programs with seven suburban police departments. A seminar on family crisis intervention was instituted. The program method and goals are described and the result of numerous new requests by police for mental health consultation are discussed. Results suggest that a training approach different from urban programs is needed and wanted by suburban police. The initiative for developing such programs clearly falls on the shoulders of community mental health practitioners.

Effect of a Mental Health Educational Program Upon Police Officers

“…Certain seminar modalities and content were more helpful than others; discussion about community resources was most popular; discussion about mental health law, handouts on crisis intervention, and question and answer time also were identified as helpful. Contrary to many studies in the literature (Driscoll, Meyer, & Schanie, 1973;Godejohn et al, 1975;Walsh & Witte, 1975), 75% of the officers cited role-playing as the least helpful modality. Nunnally's (196 1) guidelines for effective education proposed that anxiety is a key deterrent to learning and attitude change.…”