The purpose of Control Alternatives is to overcome which of the following?

• A. To overcome passive resistance, active resistance, or their threats
• B. To delay response
• C. To confuse the subject
• D. To increase the risk of injury

Answer: (A)

Control Alternatives are the authorized responses staff use to regain control when an inmate resists or threatens. The best description of their purpose is to overcome passive resistance, active resistance, or their threats. This framing emphasizes stopping the inmate’s resistance and maintaining safety for everyone, while following approved procedures. It isn’t about delaying a response, confusing the subject, or increasing the risk of injury—those outcomes would undermine safety and policy. In practice, response options range from verbal commands and de-escalation to appropriate, approved physical interventions when necessary, all aimed at safely restoring control with minimal harm.