The first chapter presents a matrix to help officers decide the level of force needed to respond to a certain degree of resistance on the part of the offender. Resistance levels are described as verbal, passive physical, active physical, aggressive physical, and aggravated physical. Other factors that should be considered in determining an appropriate law enforcement response to resistance include the suspect's size, age, gender, physical ability, numbers, and weapons, as well as agency policy and legal requirements. The "empty hand survival pyramid" described in this manual consists of three basic components: mental readiness, physical readiness, and skill. Seven specific lines of attack to be taken against a resisting suspect are outlined here in terms of three types of attack: empty hand control, ink pen defense -- common side, and ink pen defense -- opposite side. 7 references