Thompson developed the technique over years of study in the field, formed the Verbal Judo Institute in 1983, and published four books on Verbal Judo. More than 30 years ago, Thompson codified what he saw as common sense: using tactical language calmly under pressure to achieve a clearly defined goal – with the priority of keeping officers safe. George Thompson, a teacher, police officer, and martial artist who held a black belt in Judo and Taekwondo. Verbal Judo is not a martial art, but it takes its name from the martial art of Judo, which means the “gentle way.” This characteristic speaks to the philosophy and purpose behind this tactical communication. The strategy and intent of the technique are to bring a level of calm to a situation that is on the brink of boiling over into a more serious situation. Verbal Judo is a form of tactical, strategic communication with a specific goal in mind. A key part of police training is to equip police officers with verbal techniques to diffuse tense, heated situations before they escalate to the point of an out-of-control situation. Police forces are not only trained to deal with tense situations using physical force. How do police forces use verbal Judo, is it effective, and does it have application for anyone outside of peacekeeping forces? The History Of Verbal Judo Verbal judo is a specialized technique many law enforcement officers (LEO) use to get people to comply without using physical force. The techniques include speaking in a certain way, facial expressions, and body language designed to diffuse potentially volatile situations. Verbal judo is a tactical communication strategy used to calm confrontational interactions and direct them to a peaceful outcome.

So what is verbal Judo, and how does it work?

Verbal Judo is designed to diffuse tense, aggressive, or violent situations without harming either party. Verbal Judo may sound like a martial art on the surface, but it does not involve any physical contact.

Verbal judo thompson