Violent behaviors increasingly provide the basis for psychiatric hospitalization. This study targeted a group of high-risk psychiatric inpatients with a recent history of violence. A solution-focused treatment approach was used in conducting two ongoing weekly therapy groups. Patients were encouraged to reflect upon occasions where they successfully resolved problems with internal tension without using violent strategies. Focus was on factors that made these episodes exceptions. Patients were encouraged to specify behaviors and situational elements they might try to duplicate in future challenging situations. During a two month followup, a modest improvement was observed on some outcome measures. (Author)