What does "use of force" refer to in TDCJ training?

The term "use of force" in TDCJ training specifically refers to the application of reasonable force to manage an inmate's behavior. This concept is grounded in the understanding that corrections staff must sometimes intervene physically to maintain safety and security within a correctional facility. The use of force must be appropriate, necessary, and proportional to the situation at hand, reflecting the principles of de-escalation and the minimum amount of force required to control an inmate's actions.

Understanding the use of force is critical for correctional staff, as it encompasses the training and guidelines surrounding when and how to employ physical force without violating an inmate's rights or institutional policies. This ensures that staff can effectively perform their duties while also protecting themselves, other inmates, and the institution’s overall environment.

The other options do not accurately depict the concept of "use of force" as defined in TDCJ training. Negotiation with inmates pertains to conflict resolution rather than physical intervention, physical fitness training focuses on maintaining personal health rather than operational capabilities within a correctional context, and strict disciplinary actions, while related to inmate management, do not capture the proactive and situationally dependent nature of physical force application.