What is the primary goal of defensive tactics?

The primary goal of defensive tactics is to maintain the officer's safety and control the situation. This is crucial in law enforcement and similar fields where officers may face potentially dangerous situations. The focus on safety ensures that not only the officer remains unharmed, but also that individuals involved—whether they are suspects, bystanders, or the community—are kept safe during encounters.

Control of the situation is also vital; it allows the officer to de-escalate potentially volatile circumstances and manage interactions effectively. By prioritizing safety and control, defensive tactics enable officers to carry out their duties with a focus on preserving human life and minimizing injury, which is the foundational aspect of effective law enforcement practices.

While other options touch on elements related to the role of an officer, they do not encapsulate the comprehensive primary goal as effectively as the focus on safety and situational control does.