Applying the general aggression model in a Taiwanese psychiatric unit: A case study

Abstract

Workplace violence, particularly in psychiatric settings, affects nurses’ physical and psychological health. Conducting aggression management before violent behaviour occurs is an evidence-based strategy that can reduce the impact of this type of behaviour. This article applies the General Aggression Model (GAM) to an individual with alcohol use disorder and the potential for violent behaviour. The GAM addresses the causes and processes of aggression from distal to proximate factors. The nurse used a comprehensive assessment of risk, intervened using key features of the GAM, and succeeded in avoiding a violent incident in the psychiatric unit. This case study suggests that further research is needed to standardize aggression management in different settings.