[Instruments for the assessment of violent behavior towards others among the mentally ill population].

Dangerousness is the propensity for performing aggressive and/or criminal acts. The tension between denying the liberty of a suspect and the necessity to protect the environment he/she threatens makes evaluation of the "extent of dangerousness" a significant factor in decisions regarding compulsory intervention and denial of rights. EvaLuation of dangerousness aims to protect the Life of the patient--prevent harm and defend public safety.