Dissent: By Word and Action

What is Dissent?

There is no doubt that if allowed to go unchecked in a game, dissent will undermine your authority and will lead you on a path to a loss of respect and control if you are weak.
The Laws of the Game (Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct) identifies “dissent by word or action” as one of the seven cautionable offenses. Although each referee must determine how to implement the Law based on the manner in which dissent is exhibited throughout a game and from game to game, the fundamentals of what is dissent and why dissent must be managed do not change. Dissent consists of language (both verbal and nonverbal) which disputes an official’s decision. Dissent must be managed because it:

• Erodes the authority of the referee;

• Reduces the enjoyment of other participants and spectators; and

• Can spread if left unchecked.

It must also be remembered that dissent must be dealt with when it is directed at an assistant referee or fourth official.

Official USSF Referee Program Directive click here.