ViolenceWarningSigns

Your roommate refuses to talk to you and doesn’t seem to have any real friends. Is he or she painfully shy or potentially dangerous? It can be a tough call. Campus safety often depends on the observations of roommates, classmates, and acquaintances that come into contact with troubled students. Knowing the warning signs of violent behavior will help you know what to take seriously and how to respond.

Warning signs for violent behavior:

Direct statements of the intention to harm oneself or others
Threats of impending harm to self or others such as, “People better be careful or they’ll be sorry.”
Social isolation
Fascination with weapons and violence
Possession or access to weapons
Deep and disproportionate feelings of anger and being disrespected
Lack of empathy
History of problems with authority figures
Academic difficulties
Significant changes in mood, behavior, appearance, sleeping/eating patterns
Statements suggesting the settling of affairs such as saying goodbye or giving away possessions
History of harming animals

What you can do:

Bottom line, pay attention to your gut. If your instincts tell you something is wrong, don’t ignore them! Take all threats to harm oneself or others seriously and report them. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Don’t assume someone else will do something about the situation.

If you feel comfortable doing so, confront your roommate directly and share your concerns. One of the most helpful things you can do is to reach out, listen and offer hope. Let your roommate know help and resources are available through the Campus Counseling center.

If you don’t feel comfortable or safe, report your concerns immediately to the campus staff such as Resident Life, Counseling Center, or Campus Safety and Security.