An understanding of the type of person holding the hostages is of great aid in understanding their motivations and provides an indicator as to the best approach necessary to release the hostages. Persons who take hostages can be generally classified into one of four categories. Mentally disturbed persons who take hostages or initiate violent incidents include suspects with histories of mental illness and others whose activities have never been medically treated. These persons may behave irrationally or become suicidal. Although they may not seem capable of meaningful negotiations, peaceful means are never ruled out.
Skilled negotiators attempt to assist the suspect in identifying rational and peaceful alternatives.
Common criminals take more hostages than any of the other types. A criminal who is caught in the act of a crime and takes hostages is generally more predictable and rational than the mentally disturbed person. Prisoners in revolt usually form an initial, loosely organized group without a specific outcome in mind. If negotiations are protracted, the group will begin to coalesce and leaders will emerge. Sometimes, planned disturbances have resulted in leaders already identified with perceived power who will give direction to other inmates.