Core Principles

This model focuses on identifying individuals showing concerning behaviors, gathering detailed information about their motives, capabilities, and planning, then managing risks through interventions rather than relying solely on explicit threats. It emphasizes that attackers often communicate intent indirectly beforehand, prompting proactive investigation over prediction.[ptv.unl +2]

Key Assessment Questions

The framework uses guiding questions like: What is the individual’s motive? Do they have a plan or access to weapons? Are there stressors or desperation? Is violence seen as a viable option? Assessments distinguish transient (impulsive, non-serious) from substantive threats (detailed, premeditated).[asepage +1]

Applications

Initially for assassinations, the model expanded via the National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC) to schools, workplaces, and mass attacks, influencing state and local law enforcement guides. Multidisciplinary teams implement it, prioritizing prevention through information sharing and protective factors.[abcnews.go +2]