What is the purpose of distraction techniques?

Distraction techniques serve the purpose of diverting the subject's concentration and redirecting their energy. These techniques are designed to create a temporary disorientation that allows an officer to gain control of a situation effectively, particularly when dealing with an aggressive individual or a potentially volatile encounter. By focusing the subject's attention elsewhere, officers can manage a situation without resorting to physical force, thus minimizing the risk of injury to both the subject and themselves.

This method is crucial in de-escalation strategies, as it can help calm an aggressive individual, allowing for a more favorable outcome. The use of distractions can involve verbal commands, movements, or other stimuli that shift the individual’s focus, which is essential for redirecting their energy towards compliance or disengagement from threatening behavior.