Assessment of hostage situations and their perpetrators: In the context of domestic violence

Abstract

This chapter presents a crisis model that has been regularly utilized through a variety of hostage situations. It proposes modifications in response to the presenting situation, both in regard to the perpetrators motivations, traits, and characteristics, which are important considerations as part of the negotiation process. The assessment and consequent management of a hostage situation can be varied in response to the motivation and presenting traits of the hostage taker. While a model of crisis negotiation can be utilized, it nonetheless requires modification in the context of the presenting situation. Crisis negotiation is considered to be an approach that focuses on the safe release of the hostages, the non-violent arrest of the perpetrator, and where efforts are made to calm a situation and to increase rational thought. Crisis negotiation focuses on establishing communication between the perpetrator, buying time in order to defuse emotions and enable planning.