Something dangerous: touch in forensic practice

Exploring the impact of providing seated chair massage to patients and staff at a forensic mental health and learning disability service

“…The aim was to give patients and staff easy access to a complementary therapy that may help alleviate stress, improve mood, reduce anxiety and enhance wellbeing. Furthermore, the authors wanted to prompt a culture change in what is sometimes still called the 'no-touch forensic setting' (Ramsden et al 2006). This article is a service evaluation of the impact of providing seated chair massage to patients and staff.…”

“…Massage involves touch, which by definition involves physical contact and is, arguably, one of the most powerful components of non-verbal communication (Ramsden et al 2006). The use of touch is culturally specific and can be misinterpreted by the recipient.…”

“…In forensic inpatient settings, touch has long been something of a taboo (Gleeson and Higgins 2009). Ramsden et al (2006) noted that touch which appears to be considered appropriate in some mental health settings may still be considered 'inappropriate within the no-touch forensic setting', where there may be concerns that it can cause flashbacks of past violence or abuse or prompt accusations of inappropriate touching. Ramsden et al's (2006) book chapter is entitled 'Something dangerous: touch in forensic practice', which anecdotally demonstrates that the taboo of touch in forensic inpatient settings still exists.…”

“…Singer and Adams (2014) described massage therapy as a 'bounded and safe' touch experience that could be 'validating and positive'. However, people with unresolved trauma may be deeply anxious about touch and uncertain what is safe, positive or appropriate touch (Ramsden et al 2006). Touch is an integral part of nursing practice but must be used sensitively, respecting people's preferences and personal space, particularly in mental health settings (Gleeson and Higgins 2009).…”

“…Touch is an integral part of nursing practice but must be used sensitively, respecting people's preferences and personal space, particularly in mental health settings (Gleeson and Higgins 2009). Mental health nurses are taught to use touch with great care and sensitivity, respecting each patient's uniqueness, needs, wishes and dignity, particularly when working with people who may have a history of physical trauma or abuse (Ramsden et al 2006).…”