Washington State Correctional Officer Practice Exam

How should active resistance be dealt with?

1. Immediate use of deadly force

2. Verbal, control, and impedance procedures

3. Isolation and confinement

4. Presence and intimidation

The correct answer is: Verbal, control, and impedance procedures

Dealing with active resistance requires a measured response that prioritizes safety and control while minimizing harm. Verbal, control, and impedance procedures are essential in managing such situations effectively. Using verbal techniques involves de-escalation strategies, where clear communication can often calm a volatile situation and encourage compliance. Control techniques refer to physical methods of restraining or redirecting an individual's actions safely. Impedance procedures involve creating barriers or using movements that limit the individual's ability to act aggressively without resorting to unnecessary force. These approaches aim to resolve conflicts without escalating to violence, ensuring both the safety of the correctional staff and the individual involved. In contrast, the other options—such as using deadly force, isolation, and merely relying on presence—either escalate the situation unnecessarily or do not sufficiently address the immediate challenge of active resistance.