What does PAR primarily emphasize?

The primary emphasis of PAR is on verbal techniques. This focus on communication is crucial as it aims to de-escalate potentially volatile situations without the use of physical restraint or force. Effective verbal techniques include active listening, establishing rapport, and using calm, authoritative communication to defuse tensions and encourage cooperative behavior. These skills are essential for ensuring safety for both staff and youth in settings where conflict may arise.

While physical, emotional, and psychological techniques can all play roles in overall conflict resolution, the core principle of PAR centers around the power of verbal interaction to promote understanding and resolution before situations escalate. The goal is to manage behavior constructively through dialogue and communication, making verbal techniques the cornerstone of the PAR approach.