This session will explore the complex phenomenon of scapegoating within psychiatric settings, particularly in the aftermath of significant events such as patient deaths by suicide and patient-perpetrated homicides (PPH) or other critical incidents. Scapegoating is a common psychological and social reaction that often emerges during times of crisis, yet it hinders organisational learning and creates a culture of blame rather than reflection and growth.
Drawing on insights from organisational dynamics, clinical experience and psychological and philosophical theory, the session will unpack how scapegoating develops, the impact it has on both individuals and institutions, and how it can be prevented. The panel will also discuss recent examples, including heightened scrutiny after critical incidents, and how shifting from a punitive to a learning culture can be achieved within psychiatry.
Learning objectives
In this session you will explore:
- The roots of scapegoating: Explore the psychological, social, and organisational factors that lead to scapegoating in psychiatric and medical settings
- Recognise the impact: Understand the detrimental effects of scapegoating on individual clinicians, teams, and patient care. Examine how blame cultures prevent learning from critical incidents
- Preventive strategies: Discuss strategies and recommendations for preventing scapegoating in response to high-profile events, with a focus on promoting reflection, support, and systemic learning within psychiatric organisations
- Implementing College guidance: Consider how the College’s guidance on events such as patient-perpetrated homicides can be implemented nationally, with a view towards fostering supportive, non-punitive responses.
Speakers
Chair: Dr Rachel Gibbons
Dr Rachel Gibbons
Dr Nisha Shah
Dr Mayura Deshpande
Dr Jo O'Reilly, Camden and Islington Mental Health Trust, London
Dr Benji Waterhouse, Camden and Islington Mental Health Trust, London
Availability
This webinar is part of the Congress webinar 2025 package. If you attended all four days of Congress, you will have access to these as part of your Congress package. Otherwise the Congress webinar 2025 package can be purchased below.
