Die heuristische Gefährdungsbeurteilung – ein Fortbildungsansatz zur Verbesserung der Polizeiarbeit im Umgang mit Personen in psychischen Ausnahmezuständen

The aim of this review article is to discuss the handling of mentally ill persons and persons in states of mental emergency by the police. The topic’s relevance is shown by practical examples and by presenting current research results and controversies. Building on the conclusions of Lorey and Fegert (2021) on the necessary improvement of police training, conceptual contents of a heuristic risk prognosis in dealing with persons in states of mental emergency are derived. An interagency training concept with standardized terminology and recommendations for action could enable police officers to act more confidently, reduce the potential for escalation and increase the success of operations.