What does redirection refer to in a physical confrontation?

Redirection in the context of a physical confrontation primarily involves the act of physically manipulating or guiding a subject away from a situation, often using hands to create distance or to shift their position. This technique is designed to de-escalate a potentially volatile situation by removing the individual from the immediate point of conflict without resorting to more aggressive physical force or restraints. The action is more about controlling the direction and movement of the individual rather than enforcing compliance through intimidation or severe measures.

This approach is often employed for safety, both for the officer and the subject, as it aims to diffuse tension without escalating the encounter. By moving the subject away, the officer can redirect their attention and potentially calm the situation while maintaining a level of control.

In contrast, other methods such as verbal commands focus on communication rather than physical manipulation, and utilizing physical restraints is a more confrontational approach that may not prioritize conflict resolution. Additionally, dodging an attack is a defensive maneuver that does not involve redirecting the subject's actions but rather avoiding harm. Thus, the essence of redirection lies in its proactive approach to altering a subject's behavior and movement in a non-aggressive manner.