anger, aggression, violence and SA

signs and symptoms

1. Head/scalp, facial, chest, back injuries; bruises, burns

2. “Bathing suit” injuries

3.  Old or new internal injuries or fractures (jaw, arms, pelvis, clavicle, ribs)

4.  Defensive wounds (e.g., scratch marks)

5.  Responses- anxiety/panic, depression, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder

6.  Injuries to a pregnant person, miscarriage

7.  Respiratory distress

8.  Stiff neck, marks on neck, hoarseness, drooling

9.  Stroke, post-concussive syndrome

10. Traumatic brain injuries

11. Repeated visits to healthcare providers

risk factors

1. History of abuse/violence

2. Access to weapons

3. Threats (written, verbal, digital)

4. Poor coping

5. Lack of support systems

6. Emotional/physical trauma

7. Possible substance use

   1. Applies to: child abuse, older adult abuse, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault.

protective factors

1. Strong support systems

2. Healthy coping mechanisms

3. Safe environment

4. Access to healthcare/resources

5. Education

intervention modalities

1. Assess person + environment

2. Use least restrictive intervention FIRST

3. Communicate calmly, clearly

4. Maintain dignity & respect

5. Offer choices + set limits

6. Encourage help-seeking

7. Maintain safety (personal space!)

8. Call security/supervisor if needed

9. Bubble breathing = calming technique (activates relaxation response)

primary prevention

prevent before it happens

• education

• safe environment

• support systems

secondary prevention

early intervention

• screening

• treat injuries

tertiary prevention

long term care

• therapy

• legal resources

• offender treatment programs