To use the theoretical Proxemics information in a practical way, apply the following axiom.:-
If somebody moves into your personal space you must do something, if verbal does not work, it has to be physical.
If somebody moves past your personal space and into your
intimate space then there is a definite possibility of assault. The reaction to invasion of intimate space can only be physical by contact to the offender, it must be swift and sure.
Let us deal with personal space and how to retain it.
Remember we are dealing with a confrontation, not awareness, if you had been able to avoid the ensuing situation you would have done so. This is when it impossible to get to a position of safety.
Do these three things in conjunction to obtain a defensive posture.
1. Put your hands forward, palms out facing your opponent.
2. Take a step back with either foot, it doesn’t matter which.
3. Shout “NO” as loud as possible.
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Shouting “NO” as loud as possible achieves three aims.
No means just that - No. An offender cannot say that he/she is just having an argument with you, using an excuse that they know you etc.
If loud enough it may startle the offender into a submissive reaction.
The louder the better, use it to summon assistance that may be out of sight, possibly 50 metres or more away.
It is worthy of note to realise that 60% of all assaults are stopped by the defender reacting in a forceful defensive manner. Note well that it is a fact that subsequent assaults received by defenders are not increased because of their resistance. The level of assault is determined by the attacker at outset and not as a result of your resistance.
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