A Model for Understanding and Managing Cycles of Aggression Among Psychiatric Inpatients

Abstract

A model developed at the Forensic Center of the Mendota Mental Health Institute for understanding and managing aggressive inpatients focuses on the dynamics of inpatient aggression and their impact on staff. Divided into cycles of physical and verbal aggression, the model incorporates staff responses to aggressive behaviors and outlines the responsibilities of the administration in helping staff deal with aggressive patients. It particularly addresses repetitive aggression and the importance of recognizing countertransference issues.