ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 5

The Psychotic Patient as Security Guard
Leong, GB
Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California, California

Silva, JA
Associate Professor of Psychiatry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas

Weinstock, R
Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California, California

(Received 6 July 1992; accepted 3 May 1993)

Abstract

The job of the security guard is generally regarded as stressful because of the potential for violent or other hostile confrontation. Although the public assumes that only mentally healthy individuals who possess the capability to handle stressful situations become employed as security guards, this may not be the case. A series of 15 individuals who suffered from psychotic disorders while working as security guards is studied and discussed in terms of the issues of dangerousness and public safety. One case is described in detail in order to highlight important issues resulting from being psychotic while working as a security guard.

Keywords:
psychiatry, psychotic disorders, dangerousness, public safety, security guards

Paper ID: JFS13548J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS13548J
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