In an encounter with an inmate who has a mental illness, officers should primarily do what?

• A. Use routine control tactics
• B. Be non-confrontational
• C. Rely on escalation to ensure compliance
• D. Make split-second decisions based on command/control

Answer: (B)

When interacting with an inmate who has a mental illness, the priority is de-escalation through calm, respectful communication and non-threatening behavior. Being non-confrontational helps to lower the inmate’s arousal, reduces the chance that a misinterpretation of authority will trigger aggression, and creates space for the person to engage, cooperate, or calmly respond to safety needs. Using a steady voice, simple and concrete language, open and relaxed body language, giving options, and avoiding sudden movements or commands helps the individual feel respected and understood. This approach supports safety for everyone and aligns with crisis intervention principles that emphasize reducing stress, building trust, and resolving the situation without force. If the situation begins to escalate despite best efforts, officers should rely on their training and policies to adjust safely, but the first and most appropriate response is to stay non-confrontational and focus on de-escalation. Relying on routine control tactics or escalating to force generally increases distress and risk, while making quick, forceful commands ignores the needs of someone in a crisis and is not consistent with safe, effective crisis management.