Episode 18: Critical Incidents and Psychologist Safety

If you have missed AM radio, then you will appreciate this episode. John experiments with conference call software with his guests to discuss ethics and safety from a psychologist's point of view. I apologize about the squeaks (Shannon's phone), scratches and other recording imperfections.

John's guests include Dr. Don McAleer, psychologist, gun owner, firearms instructor, firearm collector; Massad Ayoob, an international firearms and self-defense instructor, expert in lethal force encounters and shooting cases, and author; and, Dr. Shannon Clark, psychologist, FBI agent, active shooter and response instructor, and lifelong martial artist.

We discuss the ethics of nonmaleficence (do no harm) versus personal safety. It is no secret that psychologists are vulnerable to threat, assault, and stalking of patients and family members of patients. The overarching goal is to start a discussion for psychologists and mental health professionals about potential dangers for mental health professionals and some options to help keep them safe.

At the end of this podcast, the listener will be able to:

1. Outline your personal values related to safety in your professional life.

2. List the options to enhance personal safety in your office.

3. Describe several responsible steps to take if you decide to carry a firearm or house one in your office.

Reading Material

Ken Pope: Therapists' Resources for Threats, Stalking, or Assaults by Patients

Robert B. Young: When a Psychiatrist Shoots to Kill

Dave Grossman: On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society

Massad Ayoob: In the Gravest Extreme: The Role of the Firearm in Personal Protection

Massad Ayoob: Deadly Force: Understanding Your Right to Self Defense

Massad Ayoob Information

Massad's Training Institute

Shannon Clark's email address

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