De-escalation

De-escalation refers to the methods and actions taken to decrease the severity of a conflict, whether verbal, physical, psychological, political, or diplomatic. It is generally considered the opposite of conflict escalation, where tensions, aggression, and hostility increase. De-escalation can include interpersonal techniques, institutional strategies, or broader socio-political interventions. It plays a central role in conflict resolution, negotiation, law enforcement, and international diplomacy. The principles of de-escalation are often explored through game theory, behavioral psychology, and peace and conflict studies.^[1]

Psychology

• Verbal de-escalation in psychiatric and clinical contexts In psychiatric care, de-escalation involves structured communication strategies to reduce a patient’s agitation or potential for violence. This typically involves calm, respectful dialogue to identify the root of distress, validate emotions, and collaboratively find solutions. Early intervention is critical—delaying action may result in coercive interventions like chemical restraint or seclusion, which can carry ethical concerns and negative outcomes.^[2][3]

A 2016 review identified 19 scholarly articles proposing models for de-escalation in mental health. Common themes include empathy, safety, calm communication, and collaborative problem-solving. A framework by Hankin et al. (2011) outlines eight goals and fifteen techniques representing the multifaceted nature of effective de-escalation.^[4]

De-Escalating Aggressive Behaviour Scale (DABS) The De-Escalating Aggressive Behaviour Scale (DABS) is a tool for identifying competencies in de-escalation. Key skills include valuing the client, reducing fear, exploring anxiety, offering guidance, reaching agreements, staying calm, and balancing assertiveness with a non-threatening presence. These abilities help build trust and prevent conflict in high-pressure environments.^[5]

Law enforcement

• United States In the U.S., de-escalation training gained momentum in the mid-2010s amid criticism of police violence and use of force. Law enforcement agencies began adopting training programs focused on reducing the risk of violence through verbal negotiation, tactical pauses, and scenario-based roleplay.

The FIRST STEP Act (2018) further reinforced these practices by mandating specialized training for handling individuals with mental illness or cognitive disabilities.^[6]

De-escalation strategies

Common de-escalation tactics in law enforcement include:

1. Tactical pauses

2. Empathetic communication

3. Active listening and reflective responses

4. Non-threatening body language

5. Open-ended rather than accusatory questions

The "Memphis Model," developed in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the most widely implemented approaches. This Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) model trains officers to respond to mental health crises with an emphasis on treatment rather than incarceration.

International relations

In global affairs, de-escalation refers to diplomatic or strategic actions that reduce tensions between states or coalitions. These can include military disengagement, private diplomacy, public signaling, or negotiated agreements. The approach has been used during and after the Cold War.

The "diplomatic off-ramp" is a modern concept providing adversaries with face-saving options to de-escalate hostilities. It has been especially relevant in conflicts such as the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, where third-party mediators have worked toward ceasefires and compromise solutions.^[7]

See also

Conflict resolution

Crisis negotiation

Nonviolent communication

Peacebuilding

Game theory