MPTC Criminal Investigations Practice Test 2026 - Free Criminal Investigations Practice Questions and Study Guide

The incident phase of the cycle of violence is where the police are typically called because this phase is characterized by the occurrence of the violent act itself. During this phase, the tension and buildup that have taken place in the first phase culminate in an explosive situation, involving physical or emotional abuse. Because the situation has escalated to a dangerous degree for the victim or others involved, it prompts the need for law enforcement intervention.

In contrast, during the tension-building phase, there may be signs of increasing frustration or anger, but the violent act has not yet occurred, making it less likely for police to be involved at that point. The honeymoon phase follows the violent incident, characterized by reconciliation and possibly a sense of calm, which usually does not warrant a police response since no ongoing threat is present. The option indicating a time before the cycle begins does not apply, as there is no incident or need for police involvement without an initial act of violence. Therefore, the incident phase is where police are actively called to intervene in a situation that has escalated to a point of immediate danger.