BOOKS FOR SCENARIO TRAINING IN DEALING WITH MENTALLY ILL INDIVIDUALS
For Hostage/Crisis Negotiation Team Conferences
Ellis Amdur used to provide on-scene scenario training for single teams. He soon realized that, due to the expenses involved, it was very difficult for crisis negotiation teams to bring him (or another expert) in to organize a single exercise. Beyond this, an effective team must practice regularly, not just ‘once and done.’
Therefore, in collaboration with Former Sergeant Lisabeth Eddy, former team leader of the Seattle Police Crisis Negotiation Team, Amdur and Eddy wrote SHAPESHIFTING, a book in two versions: one for first responders and one for negotiators in correctional institutions. Each version of this book offers thirty psychologically and tactically realistic scenarios. The negotiation team leader (often in tandem with SWAT) sets up a time-limited scenario in which a properly instructed role player will play the hostage taker or suicidal individual. Through this book, teams can set up their own scenarios, using role players (hostage takers, victims, collateral contacts, etc). who are properly instructed how to play the role in a realistic manner. he team leader will designate what particular skills he or she wishes the team to practice, although the team may not be informed of this.
Of the version for correctional facilities, two authoritative reviewers wrote:
Once again, co-authors Ellis Amdur and Liz Eddy have created a comprehensive, but straightforward, ‘How to’ book on the complex blend of science and art that is Crisis/Hostage Negotiation. This can only occur with authors who have the experience, knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully place them- selves in the shoes of those they seek to train—and Amdur and Eddy fit this profile perfectly. – James Treacy (former FBI Crisis Negotiation Team Leader, Seattle)
Great scenarios and recommendations on the handling of the varied individuals involved. Some were terrifying and moving at the same time. This should be a great training asset for crisis teams in the corrections setting. – Ret. Sgt. James Detrick (HNT/CNT Negotiator, Auburn Police Department)