What is the general purpose of the Use of Force continuum in detention settings?

• A. To determine punishment levels for detainees.
• B. To replace de-escalation with force.
• C. To guide staff from non-physical interference to measured physical force, ensuring safety while preserving detainee rights.
• D. To standardize the time detainees spend in isolation.

Answer: (C)

The Use of Force continuum in detention settings is a framework that guides staff from non-physical presence and verbal commands up to proportionate physical force, with the goal of keeping everyone safe while preserving detainee rights. It emphasizes starting with the least intrusive, most effective actions (de-escalation, clear communication, and disengagement) and only escalating if necessary to prevent harm. As the situation evolves, staff apply a measured, proportional response that matches the level of threat, stopping once safety is restored or the threat is resolved. This approach supports accountability and training by providing a clear path for decision-making and documentation, rather than leaving force to happen spontaneously or arbitrarily. It is not about punishing detainees, replacing de-escalation with force, or determining isolation times; those are unrelated to how force is applied or escalated in response to resistance.