Which type of resistance is described as a youth verbally refusing?

• A. Passive resistance
• B. Verbal resistance
• C. Active resistance
• D. Combative resistance

Answer: (B)

Verbal resistance occurs when a youth refuses to comply using spoken words. The defining sign is that the refusal is communicated through language—saying no, I won’t, or I refuse—rather than through quiet noncommunication or physical movements. This sets it apart from passive resistance, which is nonverbal and involves no vocal refusal, and from active resistance, which centers on physical actions like pulling away or moving to resist, even if some words are used. Combative resistance is a step up into physical aggression. Recognizing verbal resistance helps you respond with calm, clear communication to address concerns and guide the situation toward compliance without escalating to physical force.