Hello sirgrath11,   The criteria for admission to a psych ward is that a person is a danger to himself or someone else.  Your friend's boyfriend already meets this criteria.  So that if his meds aren't working, he should be admitted to a hospital for a review.   You are right, and studies bear out, that a history of violence in someone with SZ, could lead to violent acts.  Almost 100 percent of the people diagnosed with SZ aren't violent, but a minority are and usually because they have a history of violence in their past.  Or a history of drug abuse, by the way, could lead to violence.   You and your friend want to get this person help.  Perhaps you could call the local reputable hospital with a psych ward, explain the situation and see how they recommend you get him in there.   You just might have to call the police on the guy for him to be taken away involuntarily, and I don't mean when he "flips," I mean now.  Because you used the word violent to describe his current actions.  The way I see it, violence is violence; there's no waiting for him to flip before taking action, if you decide you want to get involved.   Lastly, your girlfriend may have to get a restraining order against this guy if he's been violent towards her.   That would add an extra level of protection.   Regards, Christina