SRO Threat Assessment & Prevention 5

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'targeted violence' as distinct from random or reactive violence?

Accepted Answer

Premeditated violence in which a specific victim or location is identified in advance

Answer

Targeted violence is planned and deliberate, with the attacker identifying a specific victim, group, or location before the attack — unlike impulsive reactive violence.

Question 2

A student who idolizes a past school shooter and has adopted similar clothing and mannerisms is displaying behavior known as:

Accepted Answer

Copycat ideation or 'celebrity attacker' fixation

Answer

Emulating past attackers — including dress, statements, and expressed admiration — is a recognized warning sign associated with copycat attack planning.

Question 3

Which of the following represents an effective environmental design strategy for threat prevention in schools (CPTED principle)?

Accepted Answer

Limiting entry points and using clear sightlines to enhance natural surveillance

Answer

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) uses controlled access, natural surveillance, and territorial reinforcement to deter and detect threats before they escalate.

Question 4

An SRO is reviewing a student's social media and finds posts expressing hopelessness, saying goodbye to friends, and referencing weapons. The SRO's MOST urgent concern should be:

Accepted Answer

Assessing the student for both suicide risk and potential for targeted violence — as these risks can co-occur

Answer

Social media posts signaling hopelessness, farewells, and weapons reference may indicate suicidal ideation, attack planning, or both — requiring immediate, dual-track assessment.

Question 5

Under FERPA, an SRO may access a student's educational records without consent in which circumstance?

Accepted Answer

When there is a legitimate educational interest as a school official or when a health/safety emergency exists

Answer

FERPA allows disclosure without consent to school officials with legitimate educational interest and in health or safety emergencies — the standard exception used in threat situations.

(SRO) School Resource Officer Certification Practice Test

(SRO) School Resource Officer Certification Practice Test

SRO Threat Assessment & Prevention 5