In the use of force continuum, which technique is most likely to be employed first?

The use of force continuum establishes a range of responses that law enforcement officer can use when faced with varying degrees of resistance or threat. In this framework, the initial response to a situation often employs soft techniques. These techniques are designed to gain compliance through non-violent means and can include verbal commands, physical presence, and other de-escalation strategies. Soft techniques prioritize communication, negotiation, and building rapport, minimizing the risk of injury to both the officer and the subject.

Employing soft techniques first is critical in many situations because they align with the principles of de-escalation and often resolve encounters without the need for greater force. This approach reflects the philosophy that officers should aim to diffuse a situation peacefully whenever possible, reserving more forceful tactics for circumstances where the subject poses an immediate threat or escalates their resistance. In contrast, lethal force, hard techniques, and deterrence are generally seen as escalated responses that are only appropriate after softer measures have been attempted or deemed unsafe.