P&S ModCast 358 - The Misunderstanding of Police Deescalation
Oct 13, 2023
auto_awesome
The podcast discusses the concepts behind police de-escalation, including the role of verbal communication and hands-free interaction. It also covers the importance of training and skill development for police officers, the evolution of de-escalation tactics, the power of verbal communication, establishing trust in law enforcement, and the value of authentic communication in de-escalation situations.
Developing strong interpersonal skills is crucial for effective communication and can be achieved through practicing in various social situations and shadowing experienced officers.
Adequate training, including verbal de-escalation and physical fitness, is essential for officers to effectively handle high-stress situations and prevent further escalation.
Agencies should prioritize rigorous applicant filtering and enhanced hiring standards to ensure law enforcement officers possess strong communication abilities and the ability to handle stressful situations maturely.
Continued training and improvement in communication techniques, through workshops and regular refresher courses, are necessary to maintain a high level of proficiency in handling various situations.
Deep dives
Developing Interpersonal Skills for Effective Communication
Interpersonal skills are crucial for effective communication and should be developed by practicing in various social situations, such as bars or attending classes like ECQC. These experiences will help officers learn to read their audience, strike the right tone, and deliver appropriate responses. Additionally, setting an example and shadowing experienced officers who excel in these skills can provide valuable insights. It is important for officers to understand the need to maintain control and composure, even in emotionally charged situations, and to be the adult in the room. Practical training that incorporates verbal de-escalation scenarios can also enhance officer's ability to effectively communicate with the public.
The Importance of Adequate Training for De-escalation Skills
Adequate training is crucial to develop de-escalation skills effectively. While verbal de-escalation is valuable, it is essential to note that it relies on a communication loop, requiring the consent and cooperation of the person being spoken to. Alongside verbal skills, officers should be equipped with physical fitness, defensive tactics, and appropriate use-of-force training. By having a strong foundation in these skills, officers can create a safer environment by using the appropriate level of force early on to prevent further escalation. Enhanced de-escalation tactics and tools, such as OC spray or less lethal options, can also be effective in defusing tense situations without resorting to lethal force.
The Need to Filter Applicants and Enhance Hiring Standards
To ensure effective communication and interpersonal skills in law enforcement, agencies should prioritize rigorous applicant filtering and enhanced hiring standards. The current generation of applicants may lack interpersonal skills due to growing up with technology like smartphones, emphasizing text-based communication. Agencies should seek candidates who exhibit strong communication abilities, respect for elders, and the ability to handle stressful situations maturely. This can be achieved through comprehensive background checks, interviews, and thorough evaluations of an applicant's character and values. Physical fitness standards should also be considered, as physical capabilities can significantly impact an officer's confidence and ability to handle interactions effectively.
Promoting Continuous Training and Improvement
The development of strong interpersonal skills should not stop after initial training. Agencies should encourage continuous training and improvement in communication techniques. This can involve participating in public speaking or stand-up comedy workshops, as well as attending regular refresher courses on de-escalation and communication. By promoting ongoing training and providing opportunities for officers to enhance their communication skills, agencies can ensure that their officers maintain a high level of proficiency and effectiveness in handling various situations. Continuous training reinforces the importance of interpersonal skills and drives officers to continually develop and improve their communication abilities.
Importance of Verbal De-escalation Training
Verbal de-escalation training is crucial for law enforcement officers to effectively handle high-stress situations. The speaker discusses the need for officers to practice and apply de-escalation techniques in realistic scenarios, highlighting the limitations of theory-based training alone. Practical experiential learning, such as using simulators and participating in hands-on exercises, can help officers internalize their training and improve their ability to navigate stressful encounters. The goal is to provide officers with ample opportunities to practice de-escalation and decision-making skills, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively and safely resolve encounters with minimal force.
The Role of Field Training Officers (FTOs)
Field Training Officers (FTOs) play a crucial role in the development of new officers after their academy training. The podcast highlights the importance of FTOs in teaching practical skills and instilling effective communication techniques. FTO programs generally involve an extended period of on-the-job training, where trainees accompany experienced officers to real-world situations. FTOs aim to expose trainees to various scenarios, including high-stress situations, domestic incidents, and difficult interviews. By providing real-life experiences and guidance, FTOs help trainees gain confidence, learn critical decision-making skills, and apply de-escalation tactics in the field.
Authenticity, Communication, and Good Tactics
The podcast emphasizes the significance of authenticity, effective communication, and good tactics in de-escalation efforts. It highlights the importance of being genuine and honest in verbal interactions, rather than projecting authority or creating unnecessary confrontations. Good tactics, such as maintaining distance, using proper body language, and ensuring officer safety, can inherently de-escalate a situation by reducing the likelihood of resistance or aggression. The speakers also mention the value of seeking training from reputable sources like ShivWorks, which provide comprehensive instruction on verbal de-escalation, managing unknown contexts, and counter-robbery tactics. By focusing on these three pillars, officers can navigate encounters more effectively and prioritize peaceful resolutions.
