Crisis negotiation is a specialized communication process used to resolve high-stakes situations, such as hostage situations or potential suicides. Trained negotiators aim to establish rapport with individuals in crisis, using active listening and empathy to de-escalate tension and encourage peaceful resolutions. The goal of crisis negotiation is to ensure the safety of all parties involved while gathering information to understand the underlying issues. Techniques often include asking open-ended questions and providing reassurance, which can help build trust and lead to a successful outcome without the need for force or intervention by law enforcement agencies like SWAT.