ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the notion of using behavioural methods in psychiatric emergency situations. Although there is as yet little scientific evidence directly supporting this approach in such situations, there is adequate reason to justify its being tried in cases where psychosocial intervention is considered appropriate. The chapter believes that the use of behavioural techniques in this field fits well with contemporary notions of 'good practice', and hope this contribution might serve to stimulate further debate and experimentation. The most frequently recommended approach is 'crisis intervention'. In a study of Mental Welfare Officers, Clarke observed that when called out to make an assessment under the Mental Health Act 1983, the workers either arranged admission to hospital or did nothing: they failed to take advantage of the opportunity to undertake crisis intervention. Subsequently, the British Association of Social Workers (BASW) and Olsen, among others, advocated the establishment of interdisciplinary crisis intervention teams.
