What You'll Learn

Upon completing DIALOG Level I Training, participants will be able to:

• Define psychological reactance and explain how it impacts behavior.

• Identify high-controlling language that arouses resistance.

• Apply low-controlling, choice-enhancing, and pre/post mitigation strategies.

• Recognize how simple word changes can dramatically shift the tone of an interaction.

• Implement practical techniques immediately in interviews, conversations, and community engagements.

Evidence-Based Results

Research highlights the profound impact of linguistic choices:

• 93% of studies show high-controlling language arouses reactance.

• Using low-controlling language leads to a 17% increase in cooperation.

• Adding a simple phrase like "feel free to say no" can increase cooperation by 31% to 50%, depending on the situation.

DIALOG is the first training program specifically designed to translate these research findings into practical tools for law enforcement professionals.

Training Format

DIALOG Level I is a 2-hour interactive workshop that includes:

• Foundational instruction on reactance theory

• Analysis of linguistic features that arouse or mitigate resistance

• Practical exercises and real-world examples

• Immediate takeaways participants can begin using the same day

Advanced training and customized workshops are also available.

Why It Matters

In law enforcement and investigative work, communication is exceptionally important.

Without realizing it, certain word choices can trigger psychological reactance — a mental state where individuals feel their freedom is threatened, leading to resistance and reduced cooperation.

DIALOG teaches officers how to avoid these linguistic traps and replace them with evidence-based strategies that:

• Promote freedom and autonomy

• Reduce resistance

• Increase cooperation

• Enhance trust and rapport

By mastering the science of language, officers can improve both communication outcomes and community relations.