Department of Homeland Security (DHS) FY2021 Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention (TVTP) Grantee Evaluation

The Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate contracted RTI International to conduct research and evaluation of the Boston Children’s Hospital (BCH) FY2021 Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention (TVTP) grant, aimed at increasing the capacity of community-based mental health practitioners (MHPs) to assess clients at risk for targeted violence and terrorism (TVT) and manage that risk. The evaluation team conducted a process evaluation of all components of the grant project, with a focus on identifying project accomplishments, challenges, and recommendations for future grantees. In addition, the team conducted an outcome evaluation of a training BCH held in February 2023. The team reviewed training curricula and other materials provided by BCH, observed one training, and interviewed staff and project partners.

BCH successfully developed the first version of a risk assessment tool for MHPs: the Targeted Violence and Terrorism Strengths, Needs, and Risks: Assessment & Management Tool (T-SAM) following a period of research into the risk and protective factors for TVT and, relatedly, suicidality. This tool was assessed for usability and feasibility with clinicians from BCH and case managers from Life After Hate (LAH). In addition, MHPs were recruited from across the country to be trained on the T-SAM and how to use it with their clients. Fifty MHPs from across the country participated in this training, where pre-/posttests demonstrated a 12% increase in knowledge. In addition, surveyed MHPs demonstrated statistically significant increases in confidence identifying, assessing, and treating clients at risk for TVT.