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Why do the individuals involved in a critical incident respond so differently to it? Research has indicated a number of pre- and post-incident factors that seem to determine who subsequently struggles and who quickly resiles. One of those identified factors is tied to how people attribute meaning to the event and their participation in it. Remember, it’s about the impact, not the incident. A study by Clark found that a primary indicator can be found in whether or not the individual perceived their post-incident reactions as due to some personal weakness or short-coming. Another study by Ray found that “It is important to note that it is not the coping skills that individuals have or do not have that are important. What counts are the coping skills that individuals believe they have or do not.”
Consider these findings as they pertain to workplace violence. Violence feels personal whether the victim knew the assailant or not. “Why did the perpetrator pick me?” “There are six teller stations in this bank. Did he see me as the softest target?” “I felt so powerless and weak.” If victims of violence attribute personal weakness to both their selection as target and to their experience of troubling physical, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive reactions it creates a difficult challenge for critical incident responders. Immediate application of psychological first aid that helps people access personal strengths and resiliency supports is crucial to reverse self-attribution from victim to survivor.
In this addition of PracticePoints we wanted to share with you some resources that we trust will be of value to all those engaged in preventing, preparing, or responding to incidents of workplace violence. Those actions may make all the difference.
Regards,
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Bob VandePol, President
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Survey of Workplace Violence Prevention |
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This specially commissioned survey represents the most recent compilation of data regarding workplace violence and its organizational impact. Prepared by the Department of Labor for the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety, the CDC, and the Department of Health and Human Services, this study should prove to be a valuable resource for all those seeking to prevent and respond appropriately to incidents of workplace violence. To view the survey click here . |
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"Workplace Violence: Issues in Response" |
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This excellent resource, produced and presented with permission by the FBI, provides a comprehensive examination of workplace violence. This easily readable booklet serves as a foundation for any organization invested in having a proactive and robust plan of prevention and response. Section 8, entitled "Dealing with the Aftermath", may be of particular interest to Crisis Care Network constituents as it acknowledges the role of effective critical incident response services. To read the entire article click here . |
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On Line Workplace Violence Training Soon to be Released
Avoiding Workplace Violence is specifically designed for the line employee. Typically the line level employee is exposed to and aware of the early warning signs of workplace violence but often fails to report these incidents to the appropriate management designee. Authored by expert Dr. Paul Viollis, and soon to be available on-line or on a company-branded CD-ROM, key issues - such as perpetrator characteristics and warning signs - are highlighted by course handouts, quizzes and program resources. For further information and to view the pre-release trailer, go to WPV Trailer. |
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Practice Points Archive
As part of CCN's on-going commitment to advancing the knowledge and resources available to all those interested in critical incident response best practices, we have established the Practice Points Archive. Past editions of Practice Points have dealt with such topics as the Evolution of Psychological First Aid, Resiliency, and Pandemic Preparedness and Response, among others. To view all past editions of Practice Points click here .
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Audio Conference to Address Psychological First Aid
Offered by EAP Technology Systems Inc., this webinar will explore the integration of PFA into a phase-sensitive, multi-component approach to critical incident response. Presented on September 11, 2008 by CCN President Bob Vande Pol, this 90 minute audio conference can be registered for by clicking PFA . |
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CCN President Bob Vande Pol to Present at IRMI
The 2008 International Risk Management Institute Construction Risk Conference will be held this year in Las Vegas, NV from October 27-30. Mr. Vande Pol's half day workshop, entitled "911-What is Your Emergency?", will address issues specifically related to crisis management within the construction industry. To learn more or to register click IRMI. |
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