[Aggression by psychiatric patients in the clinic. A one-year study of four state hospitals].

This study of aggressive behaviour of patients towards staff was conducted simultaneously for one year at four psychiatric hospitals. Until now there has been very little empirical research carried out in German speaking countries of aggression in psychiatric hospitals; the reasons for that are discussed. The results of the study are compared with findings from the prevalently american literature. Since conflicts between patients and staff precede aggressive incidents in the majority of cases, it is concluded as a practical consequence to train especially the younger staff members, who are primarily concerned, in managing such conflicts. Special importance is attached to knowledge of prior aggressive behaviour and its attending conditions.