The use of behavioural mapping in a study of seclusion

As part of a larger study into the use of seclusion we set out to examine some of the antecedents that led to patients being secluded in one locked psychiatric ward. Behavioural mapping was used to chart the location of incidents that resulted in seclusion. Incidents were observed in several ward areas but most of these occurred in the day room and the dining room. This finding enabled us to question the ward policy of confining patients to these areas to facilitate nursing observation and management. The policy may have contributed to the number of disturbances by limiting personal space for patients. Literature on body buffer zones, crowding and territoriality is used to clarify and interpret the findings.