Question 1

What is a black box algorithm? Do your platforms use them?

Accepted Answer

A black box algorithm refers to an algorithm or a technology that doesn't provide an explanation of how it works. Our platforms do not use black box algorithms, and Psynetix believes such technology is unethical. In short, our platforms automate a complex human analysis process that has been performed manually for decades. When an organization purchases our platform(s), Psynetix trains its users on how to manually perform the analysis that is automatically performed by the software. This ensures the software is well understood by its users and that they know why and how analysis is performed.

Question 2

What would trigger someone to be evaluated using SIREN?

Accepted Answer

SIREN only analyzes individuals whose concerning behavior has become observable and reportable.  This means the individual must have been observed expressing threatening or dangerous thoughts or acting out in some way.  Once that behavior has been seen, it must also be reported.  There must be an official record, confidential or not, which predicates the need for analysis or investigation.

Question 3

What type of information will a typical SIREN report provide?

Accepted Answer

The SIREN report, called a Psyfolio, consists of several sections. First, typical biographical information, like name and date of birth, is displayed. Next, the Psyfolio details any academic, professional, or disciplinary history about the individual. Also included is information about positive behaviors displayed and any awards or special recognition earned by the individual. Finally, the individual is evaluated against a database of five million positive and negative behaviors, which have been classified into sixteen dimensions. This process generates recommendations for evaluations and follow-ups if required.

Question 4

What happens after a SIREN report is generated?

Accepted Answer

What happens next is a matter of individual school, workplace, or department policy.  Once the final Psyfolio is generated and actionable recommendations are offered, Psynetix suggests the Psyfolio be reviewed by a leadership committee that monitors individuals of concern.  In academic settings, the student’s current teacher and counselor should be part of this group.  The committee should then decide on a course of action that follows their policy.

Question 5

How exactly does SIREN prevent violence? What types of actions does SIREN recommend?

Accepted Answer

SIREN seeks to prevent violence by providing users with a proactive threat assessment tool. Upon completing a Psyfolio, users can form different action plans based on an individual’s unique results. Common recommendations include implementing comprehensive safety plans, further questioning or interviewing, conflict resolution strategies, referrals for psychiatric evaluation and counseling, completing regular follow-ups with the individual, and, where warranted, disciplinary action or arrest. Actions may vary per school, workplace, or department policy.

Question 6

Do your platforms factor in race or ethnicity in any way?

Accepted Answer

No.  Our platforms do not contain any questions, fields, or forms which ask for an individual's race or ethnicity.

Question 7

Can other entities access our students' information?

Accepted Answer

Psynetix does not send student information to any outside agency, nor is student information held at Psynetix Laboratories.  In fact, if a school's behavioral forensic specialist makes an error and deletes a file, Psynetix cannot reproduce that file because the company never has a copy.

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