Which of the following is a guideline from body language when dealing with an agitated youth?

• A. Never turn your back to agitated youth
• B. Keep a closed fist while speaking
• C. Try to look as nonthreatening as possible
• D. Maintain constant direct eye contact

Answer: (C)

Looking as nonthreatening as possible helps create safety and calm in a tense moment. When an youth is agitated, their nervous system is primed for threat, so seeing open posture, relaxed shoulders, and visible hands signals that you’re not a danger and you’re there to help. This kind of body language lowers their adrenaline, making it easier to communicate, listen, and set boundaries without escalating the situation. It also communicates respect and empathy, which can encourage cooperation.

Turning your back can be read as avoidance and reduces your ability to respond quickly if the situation worsens. A closed fist looks like a threat and can trigger a defensive reaction. Maintaining constant direct eye contact can feel confrontational or intimidating, which often increases tension rather than calms it. So adopting a nonthreatening, open stance is the most effective immediate guideline.