Quick Answer
The STOP protocol is a mental health crisis intervention technique used to de-escalate potentially violent situations by creating a temporary 'time-out' for the individual. It involves identifying triggers, offering alternatives, prioritizing feelings, and teaching skills to manage emotions. This protocol has been applied in various real-life scenarios.
Averting Triggers
The STOP protocol involves identifying triggers that can escalate the situation. In a real-life example, a school resource officer intervened in an altercation between two students. The officer asked the students to take a 30-second break and step away from the conflict, creating a temporary ’time-out’. This pause allowed the officer to gather information and assess the situation before deciding on the next course of action.
Offering Alternatives
Offering alternatives is a crucial step in the STOP protocol. A security guard at a shopping mall used this approach when a customer became agitated and aggressive. The guard offered the customer a complimentary coffee and a quiet area to calm down, providing an alternative to confrontation. The customer accepted and eventually left the premises without incident.
Prioritizing Feelings
Prioritizing feelings is a key component of the STOP protocol. A 911 operator used this approach when speaking with a caller who was experiencing suicidal thoughts. The operator listened attentively to the caller’s concerns and empathized with their feelings, asking open-ended questions to help the caller express their emotions. By prioritizing the caller’s feelings, the operator helped create a safe space for the caller to receive support and guidance.
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