The Process of Intervention

1. Isolate
   
   • It is very important to isolate the angry party. An audience will only complicate the situation, increasing the likelihood of continued and maybe even escalated aggression. Consumption of alcoholic beverages or use of mind-altering substances only increases likelihood of anger, loss of control, confusion, and aggression to save “face.”
2. Actively Listen
   
   • Listening in a support manner, with a supportive stance, reduces the level of threat an individual may experience or perceive. An individual who is out of control often does not know that he is, and there for lashes out at the very person who seeks to help him. Remember, the person is cycling emotionally and will express their inability to communicate their frustration through fear, verbal and physical aggression, and unpredictable and erratic behavior. We must ignore attempts to draw us in through arguments and insults. Getting caught up emotionally in the crisis, or taking personally negative statements while engaged in the confrontation, will only hinder our chances of a positive outcome.
3. Speak Calmly, Assertively, and Respectfully
   
   • Staying in control and being respectful helps reduce stress levels. When making directive statements it is important to be polite. Avoid raising our voices or placing blame. Never use a point your finger attitude. Never use aggressive means unless absolutely necessary. We must use our relationship as a Brother. It is important to always live out an attitude of good will and build a genuine relationship. This will foster a spirit of good will and in times of chaos and crisis will multiply our chances of the gaining the trust of a clouded mind.
4. Statements of Understanding Precede Requests
   
   • Before we request anything from the individual, it is important to communicate that we understand how they feel. After they recognize and trust our understanding, then we can request their cooperation. It is also wise to affirm or validate the person’s feelings. This will give them an assured feeling of support and they will trust our response and suggestions more easily. Remember, if a person is under the influence and cycles into crisis, reaching a level of compliance though we validate their feelings may not be enough to prevent or avoid a physical struggle or lengthy argument. But be as supportive and patient as possible.
5. Invite the Individual to Consider Positive Outcomes
   
   • Invite the individual to consider the results of their actions and introduce positive results for positive outcomes. This can be a very difficult process since when we are stressed we may try to make them do what we want them to do. Never introduce consequences since to do so may further enrage and challenge the person. If the person is out of control, he may not fully comprehend the difference between positive and negative. He will not be thinking rationally so courteous, direct statements are the best approach.
6. Space Reduces Pressure
   
   • Giving the angered person some space can reduce stress and pressure. We can back off and not invade their immediate space. But only do so when and if it safe, and the person has regained some level of self-control. Whether under the influence or not, always maintain custody of the angered individual and do not allow them to re-enter the general scene until all parties are calmed down. If the person is intoxicated, make sure to take special care of him. After all, he is our responsibility if at a fraternity function or invited to our property. We are the host. If he is our Brother, then we are his keeper and should acknowledge and maintain our responsibility to him.
7. Time Helps a Person Respond to Requests
   
   • By allowing space and time, people are more likely to consider the issue, and their choices. But only do so if giving such time and space is safe and practical. Never ignore security or medical problems. If giving space and time means allowing an injured, ill or drunk person to get worse or become more dangerous then take charge—immediate action may be necessary to save lives—maybe the life of your Brother. Remember—in the end it does not matter who is wrong or right. Not when it could be a matter of life and death. It will only matter that we made the responsible choice.

REMEMBER! When we are at our angriest…we are at our stupidest!

• A potential trigger to violence – what cause the person to react violently? What is the source of anxiety and frustration?
• A target – who or what is the anger focused to?
• A weapon – what is readily available to the angered person? What do they have access to?
• A level of stress – what is their anxiety level? Is this stress out of the ordinary?

TO DE-ESCALATE THE CRISIS

• Never touching an angry and potentially violent person unless absolutely necessary
• Avoiding any aggressive moves and provocative statements
• Avoiding the crisis cycle and counter-aggression
• Removing others who might trigger the violence. Remove the audience whenever possible.
• Body language is critical. Always display courtesy, a support attitude and good posture. Body language, facial expression and tone of voice equal 93% of communication. What we actually have to say is only 7% of the battle.

• Asking the targeted person to leave
• If its you, remind the person of your relationship
• Leave the situation and ask a neutral person or member to intervene
• The target may shift during the episode – especially when the person is drunk

• Discreetly removing objects that can be used as a weapon. Do this during all social events. Be proactive about it.
• Maneuvering away from weapons. If we know a certain area poses danger—avoid that area.
• Staying a safe distance away. Maintain adequate space unless safety demands otherwise.

• Using your relationship
• Actively listening to identify feelings
• Using non-confrontational limit-setting ("Process of Intervention")