Threat de-escalation is the process of reducing the intensity and severity of a potentially violent situation. It is a skill that can be learned and practiced by anyone who may encounter a threat in their daily lives, such as at work, school or in public places. Threat de-escalation can help prevent harm to oneself and others, as well as reduce the legal and emotional consequences of violence.
There are four basic steps: recognize, assess, de-escalate and report. It would be beneficial to take a defensive training course that covers threat de-escalation, following the reading of this article.
Recognize Warning Signs
It is important to recognize the warning signs of someone on a path to violence. These may include stressors, changes in baseline behavior, observable behavioral indicators and observable physical behaviors of an escalating person. For example, a person may be experiencing financial problems, isolation, substance abuse or mental health issues. He or she may become more withdrawn, irritable, paranoid or impulsive. An escalating person may make threats, express grievances or display weapons. Physical signs include clenched fists, rapid breathing, sweating or trembling. Other behavioral indicators include yelling, cursing or refusal to cooperate.
Assess the Situation
Assess the situation to protect your personal safety and the safety of those around you. Identify what an escalating person may look like and what level of risk that person poses. It is important to create a holistic assessment of the person of concern’s circumstances and stressors. Situational assessment begins with awareness of oneself, precipitating events or stressors, and the situation unfolding. For example, you may consider your own emotional state, biases, triggers and abilities. You may consider what triggered the person’s anger or frustration. Also consider the environment, the presence of weapons or bystanders, and the availability of help.
In making your assessment, try to determine the level of risk and the possible motives of the person who is threatening you. Is her or she armed? Is the person under the influence of drugs or alcohol? Is the aggressor mentally ill or emotionally distressed? What does he or she want from you?
De-Escalate the Situation
De-escalate the situation taking place if it is safe to do so. You can use purposeful actions, verbal techniques and body language to calm a potentially dangerous situation. Safety is always the highest priority. Know your limits and obtain help immediately if needed.
Stay calm and composed. Do not show fear, anger or hostility toward the person who is threatening you. Try to maintain a neutral facial expression and body language. Breathe deeply and speak slowly and clearly.
Communicate effectively. Listen actively and empathetically to what the person who is threatening you is saying. Do not interrupt, argue or contradict. Acknowledge his or her feelings and concerns. Speak in a calm and gentle voice. Use a low and steady tone and avoid raising your voice or speaking too fast. Use simple and clear language and repeat yourself if necessary.
Use open-ended questions and statements to encourage the escalated individual to talk more and reveal his or her intentions. For example, “What is making you feel this way?” or “I can see that you are upset about something.”
Do not show anger or take offense. Even if the person insults or provokes you, try to stay calm and professional. Do not argue, criticize or blame the person for the behavior. Do not make judgmental comments. Avoid using words that might trigger negative emotions, such as “crazy,” “stupid” or “wrong.” Instead, use neutral and respectful terms, such as “concerned,” “confused” or “disagree.”
Show genuine concern for the person and adopt a non-authoritarian manner. Express empathy and understanding for feelings and needs, and avoid giving orders or ultimatums. Avoid being passive or indifferent. Acknowledge what the person is saying and show interest and attention. Use the person’s name if you know it.
Avoid Further Escalation
Be aware of your own body, how you’re looking at the other person and how you’re moving. Maintain a relaxed and open posture. Avoid crossing your arms or pointing your fingers. Use non-threatening gestures (such as palms up) or adopt a relaxed posture (but don’t slouch). Make eye contact but do not stare or glare.
Do not threaten. It will only escalate the situation and make matters worse. Do not use physical force or violence unless it is absolutely necessary for self-defense or the defense of others.
Create distance and space. If possible, put some physical distance between yourself and the person who is threatening you. This can reduce the tension and give you more time to react if someone becomes violent. Avoid cornering or blocking the person’s exit. Do not touch him or her or invade personal space.
Seek help or escape. If you feel that the situation is escalating or becoming dangerous, look for an opportunity to get help or get away. Signal to someone nearby that you need assistance or call 911 if you have a phone. If you have a chance to escape, do so quickly and safely. Do not turn your back on the person who is threatening you.
Report the Situation
Report the situation through organizational reporting to enable assessment and management of an evolving threat, and use 911 for immediate threats. The report should include relevant details such as the date, time, location, names of people involved or witnesses, plus descriptions of behaviors and actions taken. The report should also follow any specific policies or procedures that apply to your organization or context.
Threat de-escalation is not a guarantee that violence will be avoided, but it can increase the chances of a peaceful resolution. By following these steps, you can protect yourself and others from harm and potentially save lives. Threat de-escalation skills are not innate. They require training and practice.