Interacting with the Intellectually persons Flashcards
What is the purpose of the policy on interacting with individuals with I/DD?
To provide guidelines for accommodating, interacting, and communicating with individuals with I/DD.
According to the Lexington Police Department policy, how should officers treat individuals with I/DD?
With dignity and respect, utilizing de-escalation protocols when appropriate.
What does the term ‘Developmental Disability (DD)’ encompass?
Various impairments resulting in functional limitations in major life activities.
Can Developmental Disabilities (DD) include physical disabilities?
Yes, some DDs may consist of physical or sensory impairments only.
How can officers and civilian employees identify individuals with I/DD?
By being aware of general behaviors or characteristics of the population.
What are some indicators that officers should keep in mind when interacting with individuals with I/DD?
Difficulty communicating, unawareness of danger, trouble making eye contact, etc.
How should officers use body language when interacting with individuals with I/DD?
Use nonthreatening body language, soft gestures, avoid abrupt movements, and keep hands visible.
Why should officers maintain a safe distance when interacting with individuals with I/DD?
To provide a zone of comfort for the person and as a buffer for officer safety.
Why should officers be prepared for a potentially long encounter with individuals with I/DD?
De-escalation using calming communication techniques may take time; notify E911 and supervisor.
How should officers interpret atypical or odd behavior in individuals with I/DD?
Do not interpret such behavior as belligerent; it may be a protective mechanism.
What should officers do if a person with I/DD is reaching into a pocket or bag?
Officers should understand it could be to pull out an identification card.
Why should officers call the appropriate contact person, support person, or disability advocacy organization?
To seek specific advice on calming or ensuring the safety of the person.
How can officers facilitate communication with individuals who have I/DD?
Some individuals carry a book of universal communication icons for assistance.
What are some behaviors individuals with ASD might exhibit?
Lack of verbal communication, monotone speech, repetition of words, repetitive body movements, unusual behaviors, walking on toes, and more.
What should officers do when a person with ASD is missing, especially related to water?
Check all nearby bodies of water immediately.
What type of encounters might police have with individuals with I/DD?
Encounters could relate to nuisance calls, odd behavior, suspected mental illness, crisis, substance abuse, or presumed crimes without awareness.
What should CIT-trained officers do when encountering a person with I/DD?
Report encounters on forms provided with the CIT curriculum.
How might people with I/DD act during common encounters like wandering?
They may wander aimlessly, inappropriately clothed, or enter unlocked spaces.
What situations might officers encounter related to calls for medical assistance with people with I/DD?
They may encounter individuals with seizure-like symptoms.
How do encounters involving people with I/DD often manifest in terms of alleged criminal activities?
Most contacts involve non-criminal activities, which might seem like domestic disputes or disturbances.
From whom should officers gather the most information about individuals with I/DD in various situations?
The officer’s greatest source of information comes from the individual themselves.
Why might persons with I/DD have difficulty understanding social conventions?
People with I/DD might not understand social conventions due to their cognitive disabilities.
How can officers help de-escalate situations involving individuals with I/DD?
Officers should speak calmly and use simple, direct language when interacting with individuals with I/DD.
Why are people with cognitive disabilities more susceptible to victimization?
They lack social skills, awareness, and may struggle to distinguish between lawful and unlawful acts.
What strategies should officers use to interact with individuals with I/DD?
Officers should repeat short, direct phrases calmly and avoid using slang or loud commands.
How should civilian employees request assistance when encountering individuals with I/DD?
They should request assistance from nearby officers, radio, or call E911 to dispatch officers.
Why should officers seek alternatives to physical custody for individuals with I/DD?
To avoid initiating severe anxiety response and escalating the situation.
What should officers do in minor offense situations involving individuals with I/DD?
Explain circumstances to the complainant and explore alternative means to remedy the situation.
In serious offense situations, what guidelines should officers follow when dealing with individuals with I/DD?
Contact a supervisor, refer to specific series for searching, avoid body weight restraints, request CIT-trained officers if necessary, employ calming language, and provide comfort items.
How should officers handle interviews or interrogations of people suspected of having I/DD?
Consult with a supervisor to determine how to proceed.
What is the importance of training in interacting with individuals suspected of having I/DD?
Training ensures officers can recognize and appropriately interact with such individuals.
How often should refresher training for officers regarding individuals with I/DD be coordinated?
At least triennially.
