Hostage/Crisis Negotiations by Thomas Strentz

Lessons from the Bad, the Mad, and the Sad

A practical, psychologically grounded guide to resolving high-stakes standoffs, this work distills field-tested lessons on communication, influence, and decision-making under pressure. It categorizes hostage takers and barricaded subjects, explains how to structure and deploy negotiation teams, and details the strategic use of time, active listening, and behavioral assessment to reduce risk. Drawing on case studies, it analyzes common errors and success factors, coordination with command and tactical units, and the roles of media and ethics. The emphasis is on methods that maximize safety and voluntary compliance while minimizing the need for force.

Purchase from Bookshop.org