British Columbia Basic Security Training (BC BST) Practice Exam 2025

Which method is considered a way to defuse a challenge by allowing a subject to release energy through words?

1. Deflecting

2. Redirecting

3. Acknowledging

4. Confronting

The correct answer is: Deflecting

The correct method for defusing a challenge by allowing a subject to release energy through words is acknowledging. This approach involves actively listening to the person's concerns and feelings, showing empathy, and validating their emotions. By doing so, you permit the individual to express themselves verbally, which can help calm them down and reduce tension. When someone feels heard and understood, they are more likely to move past their frustration or anger. This technique emphasizes the importance of communication in conflict resolution and is particularly effective in security situations where maintaining a calm environment is crucial. Deflecting focuses on steering the conversation away from the issue at hand, while redirecting involves changing the subject or focus entirely, which may not necessarily allow the individual to express themselves adequately. Confronting often escalates the situation by raising tension rather than alleviating it, making it less effective in resolving conflicts.