Protecting Yourself From Client Violence

• Overview

Gain a better understanding of practical strategies for effectively managing workplace risk and enhancing personal safety in the social work field.Few enter a helping profession, such as social work, anticipating that they may become targets of violence from the very individuals they want to help. However, evidence suggests that violence perpetrated by clients or their family members toward practitioners is increasing across settings. Such workers are facing increasing risks in their jobs because of the nature of their work; the increasingly complex and challenging needs of the people served; and the prevalence of violence, drugs and other social problems in our communities. This material will provide you with key information and practical strategies for effectively managing workplace risk and enhancing personal safety in the office and in the field.

Authors

Agenda

Overview

How and Why Violence Is an Issue for Helping Professionals

Findings From the "Client Violence Study" With Regard to Who Is Most at Risk

Risk Factors Associated With Violent Behavior

• Individual and Clinical Risk Factors

• Historical Risk Factors

• Environmental and Contextual Risk Factors

Guidelines for Conducting a Violence Risk Assessment

How to Safely Interview a Violent or Aggressive Client

How to Create a Safe Office Setting

How to Protect Yourself During Home Visits in the Community

Twelve General Strategies for Preventing Violence