Aggressive vs. Assertive Behavior

A lot of “self-defense” programs deal with the what do I do when the attacker does this….” mentality and overlook the things a possible defender may use to avoid a conflict altogether.

One of those is body posturing or defense behavior. There are three types: passive, aggressive & assertive; of which only one can increase your odds of stopping a confrontation before it begins.

Passive behavior which is illustrated by lowered eyes, nervous feet, and an unsure voice quickly marks you as a victim.

Aggressive behavior illustrated by an angry voice, wide eyes and raised fists will most often provoke the situation and result in a physical confrontation.

Assertive behavior which consists of steady eye contact, steady posture, strong voice and open hands out front is the kind that, more than any other stops fights before they start.

To learn more, check out our next Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) class.

**Angie M. Tarighi is the CEO/Founder of Women's Self-Defense Institute and EasySafety4U.com providing self defense training, education awareness & personal protection products empowering women to fight back against crime.