ABSTRACT
Social workers, and other care workers, are regularly involved in conducting interviews on sensitive issues. It is remarkable how few professional training courses include a component on interpersonal skills, on interview techniques, and on dealing with difficult situations. Physical well-being can have a significant impact on safety, quite apart from its influence on ability to take evasive action should this become necessary. There is a tendency to focus on oneselves in situations that are difficult or threatening, because of one's bodily reactions, but it is important and helpful to try to think about the other person too. Someone who is potentially violent can give off signs and signals that constitute a recognizable warning. Awareness of the working environment is the key to spotting risks and possible dangers so that these can then be minimized by adopting safe working practices.
