The text sets forth techniques that were developed and refined over several years through use in Veterans Administration medical centers and other institutions. The techniques have proven to be therapeutic and to decrease the risk of injury to both patients and staff. The guidelines emphasize the use of a team approach. Individual sections explain research findings about the frequency, nature, severity, and causes of violence in the treatment setting; common signs of impending violence; and ways to diagnose the cause to maximize the effectiveness of an intervention. Verbal techniques, pharmacological treatment, physical management, and the use of restraints and seclusion are also discussed. Other sections explore environmental safety precautions, committee review of all incidents to identify system failures, the identification of potential violent patients, training programs for employees, counseling for victims, and legal actions when required. Photographs, chapter references, name index, and subject index