Basic Corrections Officer Certification Study Guide 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Exam Preparation

Less-lethal force is characterized by its primary purpose: to incapacitate a subject while minimizing the risk of causing death or serious bodily injury. This type of force is integral in law enforcement and corrections as it provides officers with options to manage situations without resorting to lethal measures. Instruments categorized under less-lethal force, such as tasers, rubber bullets, or pepper spray, are specifically designed to incapacitate individuals with a lower likelihood of causing permanent harm. The use of this type of force aims to control challenging situations effectively while prioritizing the safety of both officers and subjects.

In contrast, the other options refer to outcomes and contexts that do not align with the principles of less-lethal force. Physical harm and the risk of serious bodily injury are contrary to the objective of using less-lethal methods. As for the statement regarding its use solely against violent offenders, less-lethal force can be applied in various situations, not limited to only violent individuals, making that criteria overly restrictive. Therefore, the defining feature of less-lethal force is its intention to avoid the potential for death or severe injury, encapsulated in the correct answer.