De-escalation

De-escalation is the use of communication and other measures to reduce agitation or conflict without force. It aims to lower immediate risk and create conditions for a safer resolution.

Active listening: A communication practice of attending closely, reflecting meaning, and checking understanding. Reflecting concerns can signal attention and reduce the need to repeat or intensify them.
Crisis negotiation: A negotiation process used to resolve high-risk incidents through communication rather than immediate force. Negotiators use sustained dialogue to seek a safe, voluntary resolution.
Use of force: The application of physical power or coercive measures by an authorized person or institution. De-escalation seeks to resolve situations without force, though force may still be used when necessary.
Procedural justice: The perceived fairness of the processes used to make decisions and exercise authority. Respectful, impartial treatment can improve cooperation during tense encounters.
Nonviolent communication: A communication approach that distinguishes observations, feelings, needs, and requests. Its structure helps express limits and needs without blame that may intensify conflict.
Mental health crisis response: Services that respond to acute mental health distress and related safety concerns. Responders may use de-escalation to address distress while minimizing coercion.
Physical restraint: A method that limits a person’s movement through physical holding or a device. Restraint restricts movement rather than reducing conflict through communication alone.
Psychological safety: A sense that a person can speak or act without undue fear of humiliation or punishment. Reducing threat can make it easier to disclose needs and consider safer options.
Tactical breathing: A paced-breathing technique used to regulate physiological arousal under stress. Lowering a responder’s arousal can support calmer speech and deliberate choices.
School conflict resolution: Methods schools use to address disputes among students or between students and staff. Calm communication can interrupt confrontations before they become disciplinary or physical incidents.

Linked from 16 pages