Decision-Making Under Pressure
In a high-stress situation, security officers must make split-second decisions that could have life-or-death consequences. The ability to think clearly, control emotions, and follow proper procedures is critical when deciding whether to draw or fire a firearm. Poor decision-making under pressure can lead to unnecessary violence, legal consequences, and harm to innocent bystanders.
The Impact of Stress on Decision-Making
High-pressure situations activate the fight-or-flight response, which can impair judgment and coordination. Some common effects of stress include:
- Tunnel vision – Focusing only on the immediate threat while losing awareness of surroundings.
- Auditory exclusion – Inability to hear or process commands and sounds.
- Loss of fine motor skills – Difficulty performing precise actions like drawing and aiming.
- Delayed reaction time – Slower thinking and response due to adrenaline overload.
- Emotional overreaction – Fear, anger, or panic may cloud decision-making.
Security officers must train regularly to manage stress and maintain focus during high-risk situations.
Key Principles of Decision-Making Under Pressure
✔ Follow the Use-of-Force Continuum – Always start with the least amount of force necessary. A firearm should only be used when all other options have failed or when there is an immediate, unavoidable threat to life.
✔ Assess the Threat Objectively – Identify if the suspect is armed or acting aggressively. Determine if they are an immediate danger to you or others. Consider if de-escalation is still an option.
✔ Take Cover and Create Distance – Moving to a safe position allows better judgment and control. Distance can reduce the risk of making a rushed or incorrect decision.
✔ Issue Clear and Firm Commands – If possible, give the suspect a chance to comply before using deadly force. Use loud, authoritative, and direct phrases like “Drop the weapon!” or “Step back now!”
✔ Avoid “Reflexive Shooting” – Do not fire based solely on sudden movements. Verify the threat before pulling the trigger. Remember that not all aggressive actions justify deadly force.
✔ Stay Calm and Control Your Breathing – Taking slow, deep breaths can help reduce panic and improve focus. Mental conditioning through training can help security officers stay composed under pressure.
Training for Decision-Making in High-Stress Situations
Security officers must train to handle real-world scenarios before they occur. The following exercises can improve decision-making and stress management:
- Scenario-Based Training – Practicing real-life security situations to simulate high-pressure decision-making.
- Force-on-Force Drills – Training exercises using simulated firearms to improve threat assessment and reaction time.
- Crisis Rehearsal – Mentally visualizing dangerous situations and planning appropriate responses.
- Time-Based Decision Drills – Practicing how quickly an officer can assess a threat and take appropriate action.
Regular training ensures that security officers can make rational, legally defensible decisions even under extreme stress.
When to Use a Firearm in a High-Stress Situation
A security officer should only fire their weapon when:
✔ There is an immediate and unavoidable threat to life.
✔ All other de-escalation methods have failed.
✔ The suspect has the capability, opportunity, and intent to cause serious harm.
✔ The use of force is legally justified under state law and employer policy.
Even in a dangerous situation, security officers are not law enforcement. Their goal is to protect and de-escalate, not to pursue or engage in unnecessary violence.
Key Takeaways for Decision-Making Under Pressure
✔ Stay calm and collected when facing a high-stress situation.
✔ Always assess the threat level before using a firearm.
✔ Issue clear commands to give the suspect a chance to comply.
✔ Use cover and distance to improve safety and reaction time.
✔ Train regularly to build muscle memory and decision-making confidence.
Security officers must be prepared to think before they shoot. Every decision to use a firearm must be based on legal, ethical, and tactical considerations to ensure safety, professionalism, and accountability.