What is the primary goal of defensive tactics?

The primary goal of defensive tactics is to control a subject while minimizing injury to both the officer and the subject. This principle is foundational in defensive tactics training and practice, emphasizing the importance of using techniques that allow officers to maintain control in a situation while also prioritizing safety and reducing the risk of harm.

In practice, this means that officers are trained to utilize various techniques and strategies that effectively manage confrontations, allowing for the de-escalation of potentially violent situations. The focus is on achieving compliance and control without resorting to excessive force, which aligns with principles of ethical policing and community safety. By ensuring that both officers and subjects experience the least amount of injury possible, the integrity of law enforcement is upheld, and trust with the community is fostered.

Other choices, while they may reflect aspects of law enforcement operations, do not capture the holistic and ethical aim of defensive tactics. Swift apprehension of a suspect, for example, may prioritize speed over safety, which can lead to unnecessary harm. Gaining an advantage over multiple attackers or demonstrating physical strength might shift the focus away from control and safety to a confrontational mindset, which is not reflective of the intended outcomes of defensive tactics training.