Course Description
This course presents the psychophysiology of crisis situations, such as: crisis communication, use of force, suicide and the psychology of self-destruction, domestic violence, injuries, and other forms of interpersonal conflicts and violence. Students will develop strategies for professional assessment, intervention and follow-up in these situations.
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify and explain the social and psychological aspects of crisis situations in law enforcement.
- Effectively identify and discuss major crisis situations.
- Effectively discuss and explain effective assessment and intervention strategies.
- Recognize and identify the factors involved in victimology.
- Explain orally and in writing the responsibilities of police officers in situations of crisis/conflict.
- Discuss and explain in writing major law enforcement crisis/conflict situations.
- Discuss and apply strategies to effectively assess and intervene in crisis/conflict situations.
- Demonstrate sensitivity, active listening and communication skills.
Topical Outline
The Problem of Crisis
Fight, Flight, or Freeze: The Psychophysiology of Crisis
Crisis Communication
Use of Force
The Tactical Response
Suicide and the Psychology of Self-Destruction
The Crisis of Domestic Violence
The Victims of Crisis
The Hostage Crisis
Responding to Mass Panic
The Cult Mindset and the Doomsday Crisis
The Crisis of Mental Illness
The Institutional Crisis
Crisis in the Courtroom
The Cost of Crisis: When the Helpers Need Helped