Published on February 10, 2023

5 Techniques for De-Escalating Aggressive Behavior

There are many situations in which you may be called to mediate among people who are in conflict and unable to resolve it. In other cases, you may be the one who is experiencing a conflict that seems to be getting out of control or be the recipient of aggressive behavior. For these and other reasons, it is important to know different techniques for de-escalating conflict. Here are some of them.

Approach the Situation Calmly

Never start by being aggressive. Approach those in conflict and, keeping an open posture, breathe deeply. Allow your mind to have positive thoughts such as “This is something I can help resolve” or “I can stay calm throughout this conflict and help diffuse it.” Your calm demeanor will have the other participants quickly following your lead.

Describe the Situation

By pointing out to the other party that you see what is happening and expressing thoughts like “I hear you”, the others involved in the conflict will get the message that you are not there to criticize, but you understand the situation and are fully present and willing to help.

Observe Body Language

Sometimes, by paying attention to the body language of the other party, you can discover whether they are willing to talk. You want to encourage others to talk about what is happening, but you also want to observe their non-verbal cues and signals. When the other party knows you are giving them your full attention, you can start the de-escalation with a simple statement like “Please explain what happened”. Make sure to use a calm voice to show that you are going to give them your full attention and will not be interrupting or judging as they speak.

Offer Choices

Sometimes, by giving the other party different options to resolve the conflict, you may rapidly diffuse the tense situation. Keep in mind that it is much more difficult for people to attempt to problem-solve when they are upset and feel that they are not being heard. If the situation merits it, offer them choices. This could be the option to take a break and continue the discussion once everyone has had time to cool off or offer to have someone else mediate, particularly if you know someone they might feel comfortable talking to. By understanding that there are choices available, the episode may more easily be de-escalated.

Acknowledge Feelings

Sometimes, situations may escalate when feelings are involved. It may be that the main point is left to the side and all parties only concentrate on expressing and validating their feelings. Watch and listen carefully to extract the real message. If you are still unable to understand what brought on the conflict or aggressive behavior, a question like “What is really going on?” may move the conversation back on track. Your facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice as you interact with them will make all the difference.


You may also like

March 27, 2024

The Importance of a Properly Sized Rug Pad for Your 8×10 Area Rug

March 27, 2024

Mindful Mouths: Strategies For Maintaining Dental Health Amidst Mental Challenges

March 27, 2024

Are Kegels a Good Exercise for You? 

March 26, 2024

8 Great Tips for Staying Healthy

March 26, 2024

Active and Safe: Tips for Avoiding Sports Injuries in Lexington’s Community Spaces

March 26, 2024

The Future of Gaming Finance: How Cryptocurrency is Reshaping Real Money Blackjack

March 26, 2024

Emotional Resilience in Digital Spaces: Navigating Personal Boundaries and Mental Health Online

March 26, 2024

Understanding Low Libido: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

March 26, 2024

The Future of Prop Betting: Recent Trends and Predictions

March 26, 2024

This is How Mental Health Professionals Group Personality Disorders into Clusters

March 26, 2024

Innovative Design Ideas Using Commercial Epoxy Floor Coatings