Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) Law Enforcement Driver Practice Test

How can adrenaline from high anxiety during a pursuit be managed?

1. By focusing on the target

2. By taking slow and full breaths

3. By talking to a partner

4. By increasing speed

The correct answer is: By taking slow and full breaths

Managing adrenaline from high anxiety during a pursuit is crucial for maintaining focus and ensuring safety. Taking slow and full breaths helps activate the body's relaxation response. This technique counters the physiological effects of adrenaline, such as increased heart rate and heightened tension. By consciously breathing slowly, a person can induce a state of calmness, allowing for clearer thinking and better decision-making during high-pressure situations. In contrast, strategies like focusing solely on the target can keep the mind fixated on a single point of stress, potentially increasing anxiety. Talking to a partner may provide some distraction, but it doesn't actively manage the body's stress response like controlled breathing. Increasing speed might seem like a logical reaction during a pursuit, but it can elevate anxiety levels and risk management challenges, leading to potential safety hazards instead of resolving anxiety.