Washington State Correctional Officer Practice Exam

What is considered a reasonable use of force option for handling an aggressive individual?

1. Presence and verbal interaction

2. Verbal, control, impedance, and intermediate techniques

3. Complete physical restraint

4. Immediate deadly force

The correct answer is: Verbal, control, impedance, and intermediate techniques

The use of force options in correctional settings are guided by principles of proportionality, necessity, and de-escalation. Option B, which includes verbal, control, impedance, and intermediate techniques, is deemed a reasonable approach to handling an aggressive individual because it encompasses a range of tactics designed to diffuse a situation effectively while minimizing risk to both the officer and the individual. Verbal techniques involve communication strategies that can calm an aggressive person, allowing for the possibility of resolving the confrontation without further escalation. Control techniques refer to methods to safely maneuver an individual to reduce the threat they pose while also considering their physical and emotional state. Impedance techniques focus on preventing the individual from executing harmful actions without resorting to excessive physical force. Intermediate techniques can include various non-lethal options that serve as a step between mere communication and physical intervention, reinforcing that a measured response is often the most appropriate. In contrast, the other options do not align as closely with the principles of reasonable force. Complete physical restraint may sometimes be necessary, but it is often seen as a last resort rather than a first response. Immediate deadly force is reserved for extreme situations where there is an imminent threat to life; it is not considered a reasonable use of force in most circumstances and could lead to