Antecedent (Predeath) Behaviors as Indicators of Imminent Violence (In: Suicide and Law Enforcement, edited by D C Sheehan & J I Warren)

Without the ability to predict the exact moment of lethal action, crisis interveners frequently & unknowingly sacrifice personal safety in efforts to stop a suicide. Case studies suggest when specific behaviours are present, individually or collectively, a suicidal act is imminent. These behaviours include change in respiratory rate, hyper vigilance, & counting down/up either verbally or with stereotyped movement. Suicidal individuals exhibiting these behaviours have subsequently attempted or died by suicide or aimed weapons at police officers. Certain behaviours may predict impending violence. JA