Which are the phases of the E.A.R. model?

• A. Engage, Assess, Respond
• B. Engage, Respect, Resolve
• C. Engage, Assess, Revoke
• D. Engage, Assess, Resolve

Answer: (D)

The concept being tested is a three-phase framework for handling tense encounters to gain compliance safely: Engage, Assess, Resolve.

Start with Engage. This phase is about making contact in a non-threatening way—calm communication, clear intent, and a stance that invites cooperation. The goal is to establish rapport, de-escalate the atmosphere, and set the tone for what comes next. You’re signaling that you’re there to resolve the situation, not to escalate it.

Next is Assess. Here you continuously evaluate the dynamics of the situation: the subject’s behavior, potential risk cues, environment, and any factors that might affect safety or cooperation. This risk assessment informs which path to take and helps determine whether the situation can be safely resolved through communication and de-escalation, or if other options become necessary.

Finally is Resolve. The aim is to move toward a safe, voluntary resolution—gaining compliance or disengaging as needed, while applying de-escalation techniques and resources to conclude the encounter without unnecessary force. This phase focuses on closing the loop with a stable outcome and documenting or transitioning to appropriate follow-up as required.

The other options don’t fit because they alter or omit a critical phase: one uses a term that doesn’t reflect finalizing a safe outcome; another replaces a phase with a value or action not part of the standard sequence; another substitutes a term that doesn’t represent concluding/closing the encounter. The established three-phase sequence that best matches the model is Engage, Assess, Resolve.