Steps in Identifying the Threatened
- WHO WAS THREATENED? It is important to know the individual who feels impacted by the threat. There may be a need to follow up emotionally with that person.
- WHO MADE THE THREAT? Again, knowing the key players in the situation will help prevent further incidences. You may need to separate them, monitor them, etc.
- HAVE THERE BEEN ANY PREVIOUS INCIDENTS INVOLVING THE VICTIM AND THE PERSON MAKING THE THREAT? Is there a history of problems? Has this happened before? How often?
- WHAT IS THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE VICTIM AND THE THREAT-MAKER? Do they know each other? Are they friends? From the same social group? In rival gangs?
- WHAT WAS THE THREAT? This is important to find out. Be sure to obtain an accurate wording of the threat. Avoid miscommunication and confusion.
- WHAT WERE THE CIRCUMSTANCES SURROUNDING THE THREAT? By obtaining the essential information, we are able to paint a clearer picture as to the seriousness of the threat. Was it a premeditated issue? Did it arise due to a conflict on the basketball court? Was it a boyfriend-girlfriend issue?
- WHEN, WHERE AND HOW WAS THE THREAT MADE? Find out the particulars; this will help to eliminate future problems. Again, there may be a need to monitor students, separate students or change class schedules.
- SOLICIT INFORMATION FROM THE PERSON WHO MADE THE THREAT: Don't assume that the person feeling threatened is an innocent party. Be sure to hear both sides of the issue.
NOTE: THIS INFORMATION SHOULD BE GATHERED AND WRITTEN DOWN. IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IT SHOULD BE REVIEWED BY A TEAM OF EDUCATORS WHO CAN DETERMINE WHETHER FURTHER ACTION IS NEEDED.
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