IDENTIFYING POTENTIALLY VIOLENT INDIVIDUALS                 

Have you ever known someone, worked with someone, encountered someone while traveling who seems “a little off?”  Someone people joke about as likely to "go postal?"

The one year anniversary of the Virginia Tech tragedy reminds us that security is always a concern in public places.  In the case of Virginia Tech, the shooter demonstrated clear potential to be a danger to himself and others even before his final breakdown.  Red flags were raised by numerous people around him, yet tragically any action taken was not enough.

As Dan Childs writes from the ABC News Medical Unit, “unfortunately, psychiatrists say there is no way to definitively predict the kind of horrific behavior seen at Virginia Tech.” Millions of people are depressed, but not violent, and millions of people are lonely or write unusual things and are not violent. Even violent people rarely commit mass murder.

So how do you know, how can you protect yourself?  There may be certain indicators that can help predict when an individual is contemplating violence -- as well as ways to protect yourself if the worst occurs.  From the experts at ABC News:

Warning Signs of Psychotic Violence

Past history of violence
The most important predictor of future violent behavior is past violent behavior.  If someone is known to have a past of violence (include being the victim of abuse, or a history of abusing others) that alone is important.

Display of violence in writing or art
Disturbing writings could be considered a warning, indicating deep rage and a capacity for violence.  A person’s writing and art are often reflective of their state of mind.

Talking about violence or suicide
Individuals who seem to be "simmering" -- or even making overt threats of violence -- may also be more likely to commit violent acts.  Verbal expressions of violent tendencies are also among the most ignored warning signs.

Loneliness and social isolation
Individuals who stay in profound isolation and are “extreme loners” show they are unable to communicate with others about things that distress them.  Without an outlet for their bottled-up frustrations or problems, their reactions are likely to manifest in other, potentially violent, ways.

Stalking and other antisocial or criminal behavior
Stalking should not be taken lightly and should always be reported to legal authorities.  Such incidents might provide an early chance to intervene before a person goes out of control.

Hallmark behaviors of paranoia and severe mental illness
It is impossible to list all the potential signs of severe mental illness, but often you can get a “feeling” from someone’s accumulated bizarre behaviors.  Flagrant disregard for basic social norms, such as wearing sunglasses indoors, whispering, being non-responsive to questions, or ranting about conspiracies are a few hallmark signs.

What to Do to Protect Yourself

There is no foolproof way to ensure you don’t encounter a sociopathic individual.  Use these guidelines to help keep safe.

Report all incidences of psychotic or criminal behavior
Don’t wait for a person to commit a crime to report their strange behavior to authorities. 

Trust your gut
Usually when you have a gut feeling, you are right, and if you feel afraid of a person or situation, chances are it is for good reason.  Don’t hesitate to leave any situation if you feel it is dangerous or uncomfortable.

Do not confront or provoke a violent individual
Avoidance may be the best policy when dealing with someone who shows signs of committing a violent act.  Do not make any interpersonal situation more personal.  Keep body language non-threatening and keep your distance as much as possible.