Which of the following constitutes a warning sign of potential violence?

• A. Verbal threats
• B. Increased friendliness despite tension
• C. Quiet compliance
• D. Cooperative conversation

Answer: (A)

Verbal threats are a clear and direct signal that violence could occur, so they’re the strongest warning to staff to take immediate safety precautions. When someone explicitly threatens harm, it shows intent and potential for escalation, which means you should disengage the person from service, alert a supervisor or security, and keep a safe distance while guiding them to leave if necessary.

Increased friendliness despite tension can be a tactic to de-escalate or may mask underlying anger, so it doesn’t by itself prove an imminent threat. Quiet compliance and a cooperative conversation suggest the person isn’t currently showing aggression or intent to harm, which is why they’re not considered warning signs of potential violence in the same way threats are.