What should be the foundation of an officer's approach in defensive tactics?

The foundation of an officer's approach in defensive tactics being control and established techniques reflects the primary objective of ensuring safety for both the officer and the subject involved. Control is crucial because it enables law enforcement personnel to manage a situation effectively and reduce the likelihood of escalation. By employing established techniques, officers utilize methods that are proven to be effective and ensure they are adhering to best practices in various scenarios. This systematic approach not only enhances the officer's confidence and decision-making ability but also provides a framework for handling potentially volatile situations with minimal risk to all parties involved.

Utilizing speed and force, while sometimes necessary, does not create a sustainable or safe strategy for every encounter. In contrast, a focus on control through technique promotes de-escalation and reduces the chance of unnecessary harm. Approaching situations with stubbornness and aggression risks inflaming tensions and can lead to excessive use of force. Reliance on instinct and intuition may lead to unpredictable outcomes and does not provide the structured guidance that trained techniques offer, making it less effective as a foundational approach in defensive tactics.