Threat Assessment involves determining the credibility and seriousness of a potential threat and the probability that the threat will become a reality. Threat assessments differ from violence risk assessments. Violence risk assessments are more common. They consider a person's general capacity and tendency to act out violently. These examples could demonstrate instances of both these types of assessment and how they are different. A risk assessment might examine whether a white supremacist with a history of violence against Muslims will continue to be violent against Muslims if released from prison. A threat assessment might focus on the recent troubling behaviour of a white supremacist. This could be done by evaluating how likely it is that their recent hate speech against a particular mosque could escalate into violence. So, threat assessment is heavily focused on an individual's immediate intentions.
Threat assessments are often used in the workplace. Some examples include:
In these instances, a threat assessment would be important in managing an organisation's reputation.
Threat assessments are also used in domestic violence and stalking cases. Here, the aim is to determine the likelihood of unwanted behaviours, identify factors that may increase or decrease potential risks, and create tailored strategies to mitigate the threat. Stalking and domestic violence can also have a significant impact on the workplace, regardless of whether the issue began in the workplace or whether the issue started elsewhere. The effects often spill over into the workplace.
Ultimately, threat assessors seek to protect organisations and individuals from physical and mental harm.
High-profile individuals, such as celebrities or politicians, are at increased risk due to their increased visibility and potential exposure to various threats. Threat assessments can help individuals:
For all high-profile individuals, a behavioural threat assessment is a tool to avoid potential risks and ensure their safety, privacy, and peace of mind in a highly public and sometimes unpredictable life.
An organisation might seek a behavioural threat assessment for several important reasons, primarily focused on preventing potential threats to the safety, security, and well-being of their employees and workplace. Some key reasons include:
Organisations may also engage a threat assessment professional to assist with external threats, such as:
Psychologist plays a vital role in behavioural threat assessments by using their expertise in human behaviour and mental health to evaluate individuals who may pose a potential risk of violence or disruptive behaviour. They assess psychological factors within the individual and the threat environment to determine levels of risk. Psychologists often conduct interviews, use psychological assessments, and consider the individual’s context, such as life stressors or trauma, to determine the likelihood of harmful actions.
Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, psychologists collaborate with law enforcement, security, and human resources professionals to provide a complete picture of the potential threat. They help identify warning signs, assess the severity of risk, and offer recommendations on managing the situation. This could involve mental health interventions, monitoring, or law enforcement if necessary.
In addition to assessing immediate threats, psychologists contribute to preventive measures within organisations by promoting mental health awareness and helping to identify early warning signs before a threat escalates. They may also provide support to individuals affected by violent incidents, offering crisis intervention and long-term counselling to manage the psychological impact of such events.
A threat assessment is typically needed when an individual exhibits concerning behaviour, such as making threats, displaying aggressive tendencies, showing signs of mental distress, or behaving in a way that suggests they might pose a danger to others. These assessments are commonly used in workplaces, schools, public spaces, or by high-profile individuals.
Threat assessments are usually conducted by a multidisciplinary team, including psychologists, security professionals, law enforcement, human resources, and legal advisors. Psychologists bring their expertise to human behaviour and mental health, while other professionals contribute their security and risk management knowledge.
In school settings, a school counsellor or school psychologist may also be involved in the threat assessment process, such as student threats or threats of violence within a school.
The length of the assessment depends on the complexity of the threat environment. Some assessments can be completed within days, while others may take weeks, especially if the situation involves gathering detailed information from multiple sources or ongoing monitoring of the individual’s behaviour.
After the assessment, the team will provide recommendations based on the level of risk identified. These could include interventions such as mental health treatment, increased security measures, legal action, or regular individual monitoring. In lower-risk cases, conflict resolution or counselling might be recommended.
While no method can guarantee that violence will be prevented, a behavioural threat assessment significantly reduces the risk by identifying warning signs early and intervening before a situation escalates. This proactive approach often helps manage potential threats and provides resources to distressed individuals.
Confidentiality is a key aspect of threat assessments, particularly when sensitive mental health or personal information is involved. However, if the assessment identifies a serious risk of violence, the team may be legally required to involve law enforcement or other authorities.
No, behavioural threat assessments are not limited to workplaces. They are also used in schools, public settings, government institutions, and by individuals, such as celebrities or political figures, who may be at higher risk of targeted threats.
Organisations can implement prevention programs that promote mental health, conflict resolution, and stress management. Regular employee training on recognising warning signs and protocols for reporting concerns can also help identify potential threats early before they require formal intervention.
