A survey of violent and threatening behaviours within an in-patient learning disability unit

Abstract

Aims and method: To analyse violent and threatening behaviour occurring within an in-patient service. We surveyed recorded incidents over a 6-month period. Results: Ninety-six incidents were recorded. The patients involved were assessed as being aware of their actions. Police were contacted in five cases. No charges were pressed. Clinical implications: We believe that violence and threatening behaviours are excessively tolerated in learning disability units. Reasons for this include a staff culture of accepting offending behaviour and an unwillingness or inability to involve the police.