Crisis (hostage) negotiation training - A preliminary evaluation of program efficacy

This study represents one of the first empirical investigations of the efficacy of crisis (hostage) negotiation training. Forty-five special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) were assessed on a role-play test of crisis negotiation skill before and after completing the FBI's 2-week National Crisis Negotiation Course at the FBI Academy. This multiple-component, behaviorally based program focuses on the training of active list skills (e.g., paraphrasing, emotional labeling) and a number of other vital competencies requisite to successful diffusion and resolution of crisis situations. Results showed significant pre-post differences on nearly all active listening skills for course participants. Further, attempts to problem solve, often detrimental in early phases of crisis negotiation, decreased as related to training.