Verbal Judo: The Art of Tactical Communication

Verbal Judo is a communication technique developed by Dr. George J. Thompson, blending principles from martial arts with the psychology of effective dialogue. Much like its physical counterpart, verbal judo is about redirecting aggression and resolving conflict without escalation. It teaches individuals—especially those in high-stress professions like law enforcement, healthcare, and education—how to stay calm, defuse tension, and achieve cooperation through words, not force.

At its core, verbal judo emphasizes empathy, respect, and persuasion. Instead of reacting emotionally to insults or aggression, practitioners learn to stay centered, listen actively, and guide conversations toward constructive outcomes. The method relies on key principles such as:

• “Don’t react, respond.” This encourages controlled, thoughtful communication rather than emotional outbursts.
• “People rarely do what you tell them—they do what they understand.” Clarity and empathy are crucial for gaining compliance.
• The “five-step hard style” for persuasion, which moves from polite request to assertive insistence, while maintaining professionalism.

One of the most powerful ideas in verbal judo is the concept of the “universal truth”: everyone wants to be treated with dignity and respect, even in difficult situations. By honoring this, verbal judo transforms conflict into cooperation, making it a valuable tool in both professional and personal life.

In a world where words can escalate or defuse a situation in seconds, verbal judo is a reminder that true strength often lies not in what you say—but in how you say it.

The Five Universal Truths of Verbal Judo

1. People want to be treated with dignity and respect.
2. People want to be asked rather than told what to do.
3. People want to be given options rather than threats.
4. People want a second chance to make the right decistion.
5. People want to be heard and understood

Learn More: Principles of De-Escalation