What is the primary goal of crisis intervention training (CIT)?

The primary goal of crisis intervention training (CIT) is to equip officers with the skills to handle mental health crises effectively. This specialized training focuses on helping law enforcement understand how to interact with individuals experiencing mental health issues, as well as recognizing the signs and symptoms of such crises. The intention is to provide officers with tools and techniques that promote de-escalation and facilitate positive outcomes, ultimately prioritizing the safety of both the officer and the individual in crisis.

Through CIT, officers learn how to communicate effectively, engage in active listening, and connect individuals in crisis with appropriate mental health resources. This approach emphasizes empathy and understanding, aiming to reduce the likelihood of violence and to manage situations in a manner that is respectful and non-threatening.

While the other options involve important aspects of law enforcement training, they do not capture the specific focus of CIT on mental health crises. Physical confrontation training is geared towards self-defense rather than mental health understanding, legal procedures pertain to adherence to the law rather than crisis management, and community policing seeks to build relationships with the community rather than specifically addressing mental health crises. Hence, the focus of CIT on mental health crisis management distinguishes it as the correct choice.