The Dynamic Appraisal of Situational Aggression (DASA)
Find out more about purchasing the DASA manual and registering for the online training program.
The Dynamic Appraisal of Situational Aggression (DASA) is a seven-item observer-rated actuarial risk assessment instrument that is used to assess the likelihood of imminent aggression (within the next 24 hours) in mental health inpatients. DASA is generally rated once per day by unit-based nursing staff, although other qualified staff can complete ratings as well, and ratings can also be made more regularly than once per day.
Staff completing DASA consider whether each of the seven items is present and then produce a total score and risk ratings by summing the rating for each item. The predictive accuracy of DASA has been repeatedly demonstrated in both civil and forensic mental health units.
DASA is now used in various settings, countries and with various populations. It is one of only two instruments recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (2015) to help monitor and reduce incidents of violence and aggression and to help develop a risk management plan in inpatient mental health settings.
DASA online training program
Purchase the program
This online training program costs A$30 per registration. For group registrations, contact info-cfbs@swinburne.edu.au for a pricing schedule. To check if your computer will support the online program, please visit the Thinkific System Requirements and Supported Browsers information page.
DASA manual
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Dynamic Appraisal of Situational Aggression manual
Purchase your very own hard copy of the DASA manual.
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Dynamic Appraisal of Situational Aggression: Youth Version manual
Purchase your very own hard copy of the DASA manual.
Preview the DASA manual
Want to know more about DASA?
For any enquiries about the Dynamic Appraisal of Situational Aggression (DASA), please contact Professor Michael Daffern by emailing mdaffern@swinburne.edu.au.
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Contact the Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science
There are many ways to engage with us. Whether you’re a student, from the media or an organisation interested in our professional development and training programs or consulting services, contact us on +61 3 9214 3887 or via cfbs@swinburne.edu.au.