Violence prevention begins with therapy: Leading scientists from SFB TRR 379 are co-authors of DGPPN statement

Effectively preventing violence means not only controlling it, but also understanding it: The German Society for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Neurology (DGPPN) has now published a fundamental statement on violence prevention, in which therapeutic approaches are highlighted as a key measure. ‘The best way to prevent violence is through targeted and scientifically based therapy,’ is the tenor of the DGPPN statement. This is based on the latest findings in psychiatry, psychotherapy and neuroscience.

Ute Habel, Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg and Andreas Reif, three applicants and principal investigars of the TRR 379, are authors of the DGPPN statement and emphasise the opportunities offered by ongoing exchange between current research, psychiatric care practice and social developments. In its publication, the DGPPN calls for a societal rethink in dealing with violence. It is essential to recognise and treat mental illness at an early stage, analyse risk factors scientifically and expand preventive treatment options – especially in the prison system, social work and forensic psychiatry. By developing a deeper, cross-diagnostic understanding of the neuropsychobiology of aggression, the Collaborative Research Centre aims to contribute to better ways of dealing with this social challenge.

Link to the Statement by the DGPPN in German: „Das beste Mittel der Gewaltprävention ist Therapie“ (in German) https://www.dgppn.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/pressemitteilungen-2025/das-beste-mittel-der-gewaltpraevention-ist-therapie.html