Implementing an audience-specific small-group gatekeeper training program to respond to suicide risk among college students: a case study.
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.


METHODS
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.
a University Counseling Center, University at Albany, State University of New York , Albany , New York.
M Dolores
MD
Cimini
Estela M
EM
Rivero
Joseph E
JE
Bernier
Judith A
JA
Stanley
Andrea D
AD
Murray
Drew A
DA
Anderson
Heidi R
HR
Wright
Mona
M
Bapat
D000293:Adolescent; D003376:Counseling; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D020793:Gatekeeping; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008605:Mental Health Services; D009518:New York; D019982:Organizational Case Studies; D016730:Program Development; D012307:Risk Factors; D013333:Student Health Services; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014495:Universities; D055815:Young Adult; D000092864:Suicide Prevention