Commentary: Police officers and persons with mental illness

J Am Acad Psychiatry Law. 2013;41(3):356-8.

Abstract

Silverstone et al. present a study outlining the success of a novel training program implemented in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, to train police officers to interact with persons who may have a psychiatric disorder. The training was well accepted by the participants and was novel in its use of professional actors to portray persons with mental illness across six model scenarios. I outline the need for such training and comment on certain aspects of this particular program, including overall design, usefulness, and limitations.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Inservice Training / methods*
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Mental Disorders / psychology*
  • Police / education*