PAINs: Warning Signs of an At-Risk Individual
Using Pre attack indicators of violence, security officials can prevent or at least mitigate an attack.
Pre attack indicators of violence can come in many forms, including behaviors and physical appearance.
When identified and handled properly, pre-attack indicators of violence, or PAINs, can be used to mitigate a threat. Preventing an attack requires the observation of subtle PAINs; not just waiting for direct threats. To read more about how to identify PAINs and react to them, read Using Situational Awareness to Identify Pre-Attack Indicators.
The following are actions that may be associated with PAINs and warrant closer attention, as well as possibly the application of a threat assessment.
- Threat of suicide or self-harm
- Threat of violence, directly or implied
- Fascination with/asserting ownership of firearms
- History of violence or behavior obviously insensitive to others
- Preoccupation with themes of violence
- Identify with dangerous individuals, acts and/or philosophy
- Preoccupation with other incidents of publicized violence
- Intimidating others, frequently confrontational
- Crossing boundaries (e.g., excessive calls, emails, etc.)
- Marked academic performance decline
- Notable changes in personality, mood or behavior
- Give away personal possessions
- Shows noticeable decline in personal hygiene
- Substance abuse
Brad Spicer is founder and president of SafePlans, a firm that specializes in all-hazards preparedness solutions. For more information, visit SafePlans.com.
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