Conflict Avoidance & Violence Prevention

Strategic De-Escalation

In any frontline role—whether in enforcement, healthcare, or private security—the ability to recognize, de-escalate, and avoid physical confrontation is the highest form of professional skill. This course is designed to move beyond basic communication, providing students with the psychological and tactical tools to manage aggression before it turns into violence.

Developed by M.D. Burgess and Associates Inc., this curriculum focuses on the “Professionalism of Safety,” teaching practitioners how to maintain their own emotional control while influencing the behavior of others in crisis.

Course Outline

• Introduction: Conflict Avoidance and Violence Prevention.

• Avoidance vs. Prevention: Understanding the critical differences between Conflict Avoidance and Conflict Prevention.

• Effective Communications: Mastering the verbal and non-verbal tools specific to security operations.

• Mental Health Awareness: Navigating Mental Illness and Emotional Behaviour for front-line professionals.

• Proactive Safety: Situational Awareness and Proactive Violence Prevention strategies.

• Final Assessment: Conflict Avoidance and Violence Preventions Course Final Exam.

• Course Completion: Certification and professional validation.

Key Course Details

• Target Audience: Security Professionals, Healthcare Staff, Bylaw Officers, and Public-Facing Employees.

• Prerequisites: None. (This is a standalone academic course).

• Format: Self-directed online modules with integrated situational case studies.

• Accreditation: A Printable Certificate of Completion is provided upon successful finishing of the course.

• Copyright: All course materials are copyrighted to M.D. Burgess and Associates Inc.

Important Requirements & Policies

• Access: 10 weeks of 24/7 access to complete the materials at your own pace.

• Academic Standards: A passing grade of 80% or higher is required for certification to ensure a firm grasp of safety protocols.

• Academic Integrity: The use of ChatGPT or any Artificial Intelligence to answer questions, write case studies, or generate reflections is strictly prohibited. AI usage is considered cheating and a violation of professional ethics.

• Consequences: Any student found using AI will automatically fail.

Note: This course is designed to prevent physical altercations through strategic communication. It does not replace physical “Use of Force” training but serves as the essential foundation for it.