Which of the following is commonly considered a factor in potential workplace violence risk?

Which of the following is commonly considered a factor in potential workplace violence risk?

• A. Poor impulse control
• B. Substance abuse
• C. Depression
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

When evaluating potential workplace violence risk, it’s useful to look at factors that can influence a person’s likelihood of acting violently under stress. Poor impulse control means someone has difficulty stopping aggressive actions or outbursts, which can lead to violent acts in tense situations. Substance abuse impairs judgment, lowers inhibitions, and can increase irritability and aggression, especially in high-pressure environments or when combined with stress. Depression, while not a single predictor of violence, often comes with symptoms like irritability, withdrawal, sleep disruption, and increased stress reactivity, which can contribute to risky behavior in certain contexts or when coupled with other factors. Because each of these can, in different ways, elevate risk, they are commonly considered factors in assessing potential workplace violence.

When evaluating potential workplace violence risk, it’s useful to look at factors that can influence a person’s likelihood of acting violently under stress. Poor impulse control means someone has difficulty stopping aggressive actions or outbursts, which can lead to violent acts in tense situations. Substance abuse impairs judgment, lowers inhibitions, and can increase irritability and aggression, especially in high-pressure environments or when combined with stress. Depression, while not a single predictor of violence, often comes with symptoms like irritability, withdrawal, sleep disruption, and increased stress reactivity, which can contribute to risky behavior in certain contexts or when coupled with other factors. Because each of these can, in different ways, elevate risk, they are commonly considered factors in assessing potential workplace violence.