John D. Byrnes

John D. Byrnes, D.Hum, founded the Center for Aggression Management in 1993 on the principle, “If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.” As a businessman, author, and lecturer, Byrnes recognized that in today’s contentious world, aggression in one sphere often bleeds into others—our workplaces, schools, and politics. In response, he developed the Critical Aggression Prevention System (CAPS), which employs scientifically reliable, human-based indicators and skills to proactively measure and manage aggression, focusing on prevention rather than reaction.

Byrnes has authored three pivotal books on aggression management: “Safe Schools, Safe Futures”, “Bridging the Divide”, and “A Blueprint for Workplace Violence Prevention”.

In “Safe Schools, Safe Futures”, Byrnes addresses the need for School Resource Officers (SROs) to prevent school shootings before they happen. CAPS provides SROs with tools to measure and manage early signs of aggression, enabling them to track and prevent escalation without violating HIPAA, FERPA, or the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Byrnes emphasizes that while absolute prevention isn’t possible, CAPS provides scientifically reliable solutions that parents and communities seek for safe schools.

In the workplace, “A Blueprint for Workplace Violence Prevention” highlights how aggression spills into professional settings. Through CAPS, early measurement of aggression—such as an employee’s quiet withdrawal or passive-aggressive remarks—allows Certified Aggression Managers to constructively address concerns before they escalate. By identifying and managing these behaviors early, CAPS fosters safer, more supportive work environments amid today’s tensions.

In “Bridging the Divide”, Byrnes turns to the realm of political aggression, demonstrating how polarized perspectives can quickly escalate from civil dialogue to hostility. CAPS provides a framework to measure and manage political aggression, equipping people with skills to build rapport, engender trust, and prevent destructive divisions before they spiral out of control.

Often, people post their first dollar bill. I’m proud to share my first review:

“A Blueprint for Workplace Violence Prevention” by Dr. John D. Byrnes is an insightful and timely read for anyone concerned about safety in the workplace. The book effectively outlines the principles of the CAPS (California Attorney General's Office's California Workplace Violence Prevention Program) and the implications of Senate Bill 553 in combating workplace violence. Dr. Byrnes presents a comprehensive approach to prevention, blending practical strategies with real-world examples. His expertise shines through as he emphasizes the importance of proactive measures and creating a culture of safety. I highly recommend picking up a copy of this valuable resource for employers, HR professionals, and policymakers looking to implement effective violence prevention strategies in their organizations.

— William Acosta, NYPD Ret.

Byrnes’s work offers actionable insights for those seeking effective strategies to prevent and manage aggression, creating safer and more supportive environments in workplaces, schools, and communities.