Behavioral Evaluation Threat Assessment (BETA) Team

As part of a larger and institution-wide commitment to a safe campus environment, the University of Oregon’s BETA Team is charged with developing comprehensive fact-based assessments of individuals who may present a threat to the university.

The team includes representatives from:

• Safety and Risk Services
• Office of the Provost
• University of Oregon Police Department
• Division of Student Life
• University Counseling Services
• Human Resources/Employee & Labor Relations
• The Office of Investigation and Civil Rights Compliance
• The Office of the General Counsel

The team also includes psychologists from the University's Counseling Center. The General Counsel’s Office serves as an adviser to the Team. The team is co-chaired by Safety and Risk Services and Student Life.

The BETA Team:

• Is empowered to assess threats and make recommendations consistent with UO policy and applicable law.
• Collaborates with the campus community in the development of preventative measures - including the implementation of plans and protocols for responding to credible threats and acts of violence.
• Provides support to those potentially impacted by the threatening behavior.
• Is committed to the safety and well-being of the University community.
• Reviews and develops threat assessment and response policies and procedures.

Reporting a Threat

To report a threat, select the "Report a Concern" button. If this is an emergency situation, please call 911 or the University of Oregon Police Department at 541-346-2919, and press 0.

Report a Concern

Threat Assessment Methodology

BETA utilizes WAVR-21, a structured judgement tool developed by forensic psychologists to help assess threats. WAVR-21 is an instrument that includes 21 factors based on extensive case and forensic experience and a thorough review of the research literature. The tool is written with non-clinical users in mind and includes psychological, behavioral, historical, and situational factors associated with organizational violence, (e.g., preoccupation with violence, threats, irrational thinking, substance abuse, history of violence or criminality, extreme moods). The result of the assessment is used to help determine recommendations for decisions makers in each case. 

Why Involve the BETA Team? 

• Provide proactive intervention or assistance.
• Pool knowledge from team members regarding credibility of threats.
• Means to prevent an attack or incident.
• Obligations under Title IX and Violence Against Women Act. 
• Ability to make safety plans for those who feel unsafe.