Citation

Cimini MD, Rivero EM, Bernier JE, Stanley JA, Murray AD, Anderson DA, Wright HR, Bapat M. J. Am. Coll. Health 2014; 62(2): 92-100.

Affiliation

University Counseling Center, University at Albany, State University of New York , Albany , New York.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07448481.2013.849709

PMID

24456511

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This case study evaluated the effectiveness of an audience-specific, single-session, small-group interactive gatekeeper training program conducted at a large northeastern public university. Participants: Participants were 335 faculty, staff, and students completing gatekeeper training programs tailored to their group needs. METHODS: Baseline assessments of knowledge about suicide, risk factors, resources for assistance, and comfort in intervening with a student in distress were administered to participants prior to the small-group training sessions; posttest assessments of knowledge and comfort in intervening with students in distress were administered upon completion of training and at 3-month follow-up. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant increase in knowledge and comfort upon completion of training for both faculty/staff and student groups, although degradation of training effects at 3-month follow-up was evident. CONCLUSIONS: There are benefits associated with the implementation of audience-specific gatekeeper training programs. Booster training sessions to address skill degradation over time are recommended.

Language: en