VIOLENCE
Some do's and don'ts in handling violence
Practical steps to bear in mind when confronted by violence
Monitor your body language
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DO maintain a relaxed yet erect posture, hands open (palms up) in front of you. (This position portrays a non-aggressive stance.)
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DO NOT point your finger, shake your fist, or shrug your shoulders. (Such behaviour increases hostility.)
Portray an impartial demeanor
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DO maintain a neutral facial expression. (This expression indicates an attentive, non-judgmental demeanor.)
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DO NOT grimace, roll your eyes, or look bored. (These reactions tend to aggravate an already tense situation.)
Portray confidence
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DO maintain appropriate eye contact at all times. (This response displays confidence and concern; however, to some ethnic groups it means hostility.)
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DO NOT lose eye contact or lose sight of the youth. (This response may be perceived as fear, rejection, or lack of care.)
Portray calmness
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DO remain positive. Talk to yourself in positive and encouraging terms: "I'm in control of the situation" or "I have several options that will work."
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DO NOT engage in negative self-talk. "I'm not in control." "I don't have any options." "I'm in big trouble." (This makes it difficult For you to think and act effectively)
Maintain a safe distance
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DO keep a minimum distance of three arm's lengths between you and the agitated youth. (This spacing reduces the likelihood of standing in the region where punches, pulls, grabs, pushes, and lunges occur.)
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DO position yourself so that you are standing at a 45 degree angle to the agitated youth. (This non-threatening position reduces the number of vulnerable areas of your body that could be attacked. It also puts you in an easier position to turn quickly and retreat, if necessary.)
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DO keep both hands open (palms facing up) and in front of you. (This stance allows you to block and grab at the same time, if necessary. It also portrays an open, non-aggressive demeanor.)