(This post is an extension of our
self-defense strategy. In depth understanding of this strategy, how it relates
to our training, and how it should be applied in real situations, is a required
component of advancement in our club. The basic strategy can be found here)
Part 1 - Profile Of A Criminal
When you hear the word
"criminal", you may picture a certain type of person with a certain
appearance. Perhaps what you think of as a "criminal" is a ragged man
with long or unkempt hair with scruffy facial hair. Maybe you think of a certain
ethnicity, age group, body type, etc.
Everyone must understand that
anybody you encounter could potentially be a criminal: the friendly, handsome
young man you meet at work or school; the jovial middle-aged woman you see at
the grocery store; and any other profile that you would typically not associate
with criminal behavior has the potential of concealing a criminal predator.
Keep in mind that criminals
typically don't want to draw attention to themselves, so they will often do
their best to not appear criminal. This is especially true in cases where the
criminal uses some sort of deceit to accomplish their purpose (con artists,
pedophiles, date rapists, etc). These sorts of predators are experts at gaining
your trust in order to take advantage of you.
Protect yourself from deceit. Be
mindful of casual acquaintances from school, work, etc. After all, you don't
really know them that well. Maintain boundaries. If a casual acquaintance is
asking for favors, offering help, or exhibiting any other behaviors normally
reserved for close friends or family members, you have reason to be suspicious.
Always be alert and vigilant;
understand that anyone could be a criminal predator.
by Tim Okawa
Tim is an advanced instructor in
Koushinkai Karate and certified by the NRA as an instructor for the Refuse To
Be A Victim program.
