What is an example of passive resistance?

Passive resistance refers to a form of opposition where an individual does not actively engage in confrontational behavior but still communicates dissent or non-compliance. It is characterized by actions that are non-threatening and do not provoke a physical confrontation.

Non-threatening, non-compliance behavior captures the essence of passive resistance perfectly, as it involves an individual refusing to follow instructions or cooperate without escalating the situation into active defiance or aggression. This can manifest in various ways, such as refusing to move or comply with requests while remaining calm, which can be more challenging for law enforcement to handle since it doesn't provide a clear justification for physical intervention.

In contrast, attempts to flee a situation represent an active response and are often considered more aggressive or confrontational. Verbally arguing with law enforcement also constitutes a more active form of dissent, often escalating tensions rather than maintaining a neutral, passive stance. Forcing an officer's hand implies a direct physical altercation or active resistance, which certainly does not align with the concept of passive resistance.