What action is discouraged in regards to staff using force?

Utilizing excessive force as a first response is discouraged because it goes against the principles of proportionality and necessity in the use of force within institutional settings. Appropriate use of force is meant to ensure the safety of both staff and individuals in their care, and excessive force can escalate situations rather than de-escalate them. Moreover, it can lead to serious physical harm, legal consequences, and undermine the trust and rapport built between staff and individuals. Emphasizing the importance of measured responses over excessive reactions promotes a culture of safety, accountability, and respect for human dignity, which is essential in any corrective or rehabilitative environment.

The emphasis is on using reasonable force only when absolutely necessary, exploring options like verbal de-escalation first, and ensuring that incidents are properly documented to promote transparency and learning from the situation.