According to verbal de-escalation techniques, what does fogging refer to?

Fogging is a verbal de-escalation technique used to diffuse potentially volatile situations by acknowledging the other person's perspective while maintaining a neutral or non-defensive stance. By agreeing with certain principles or recognizing the validity of the other's feelings, a juvenile justice officer can reduce tension and foster dialogue. This technique helps to demonstrate understanding without necessarily conceding to demands or escalating the conflict.

The approach is effective because it validates the emotions of the person in conflict, making them feel heard and understood, which can often lead to a more constructive interaction. This allows the officer to maintain authority while building rapport, ultimately aiming to de-escalate the situation peacefully.

Other techniques, such as asking for clarification or remaining silent, may play roles in de-escalation but don't specifically encapsulate the essence of fogging, which is focused on finding common ground and agreement, even when the officer may not fully agree with the other person's stance.