Which of the following best defines pressure point?

• A. Techniques used to control resistant behavior by using pain compliance.
• B. A medical term for pressure ulcers.
• C. A grappling hold to immobilize.
• D. A type of skin irritation.

Answer: (A)

Pressure point refers to techniques that rely on applying controlled pain to specific areas in order to influence a person’s behavior. In use-of-force training, these pain-compliance methods are used to gain compliance when verbal commands and de-escalation have failed, with the aim of stopping resistant behavior while minimizing harm. This is why the statement describing pressure points as techniques used to control resistant behavior by using pain compliance is the best fit. It isn’t a medical term for pressure ulcers, which are injuries from prolonged pressure. It isn’t simply a grappling hold used to immobilize, since the emphasis here is on pain-based compliance rather than immobilization alone. It also isn’t a type of skin irritation.