An Evaluation of De-Escalation Training to Understand the Links between Training and Outcomes

• In Event: Police De-escalation Strategies: An Assessment of the Research & Innovative Approaches

Abstract

This study consists of a randomized-controlled trial of a hybrid (in-person/online), de-escalation training program that will: (1) examine officer behaviors in use of force and non-use of force encounters; (2) analyze use of force encounters through systematic social observation; and (3) evaluate the impact of training on improvements in officers' de-escalation skills. The research team answered three research questions: (1) Can de-escalation training alter officer behaviors in ordinary officer-citizen interactions? (2) When officers do use force, can de-escalation training alter the trajectory of the use of force incident? (3) Can de-escalation training improve officers’ social interaction skills that are used when interacting with citizens? Officers participating in the study were randomly assigned to a training program that focuses on improving officers’ abilities to read cues from citizens that enable them to identify accurately citizens’ thoughts and emotions; use this information to generate opportunities for compromise and increased voluntary compliance. Key findings discussed will focus on the impact of de-escalation training using Systematic Social Observation body-worn camera footage on officer attitudes and behaviors in the Virginia Beach Police Department. Additionally, research findings will include a discussion of the impact of de-escalation training on improvements in officer empathy in police-citizen encounters.

Author

• Kyle McLean, Clemson University