In the MPTC Use of Force Model, which response category focuses on gaining compliance via communication and control rather than force?

• A. Contact control
• B. Deadly force
• C. Cooperative control
• D. Defensive tactics

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is using cooperation and communication to gain compliance without escalating to force. Cooperative control emphasizes de-escalation, clear instructions, and building rapport—using calm dialogue and options to persuade the person to comply while keeping distance and time on your side. This approach aims to resolve the encounter through voluntary compliance rather than physical force.

Deadly force represents the use of lethal means and is far beyond what’s needed for gaining compliance. Defensive tactics cover physical skills used to protect yourself or subdue a subject when force becomes necessary. Contact control focuses on physical holds and techniques to restrain someone after they don’t comply. So, the category that best fits gaining compliance via communication and control rather than force is cooperative control.