Self Defense for Men
By Marlene Gundlach | July 12, 2008
Certain men may not feel they need to study up on self defense. The main focus of this section is to make men aware that they, too, can be the victims of an attack. It needs to be reiterated that the key to self defense is simply not putting oneself in a vulnerable position in the first place.
You Can be a Victim
First and foremost, men must recognize that they can become victims of violence. When talking about safety and self defense, the focus is often on women. Most men believe themselves to be the protector of those around them, making them more likely to be in a violent confrontation. Men must be aware of high-risk safety factors, and seriously consider the ways in which they can reduce their chances of becoming victims. Even visiting an ATM at night can put you in a unsafe situation.
Keeping Behavior in Check
Men often find themselves in trouble when they make rude or offensive comments. Control what comes out of your mouth at all times so this does not become a factor; be your own verbal editor and think before you speak. If you are somewhere and a fight breaks out, do not become involved. When a brawl ensues, a man does not want to be standing in the middle of it all. Men are more likely to either become injured or drawn into fights. Take the necessary precautions to avoid confrontations with drunks or people who appear high on drugs. They are often unreasonable and can easily become agitated, due to impaired thinking and judgment.
No Such Thing as a Fair Fight
Never think you are fighting a “fair fight.” You may be attacked by multiple assailants or someone may have a weapon. Again, if a fight breaks out, leave immediately. Once gunfire breaks out, it is often too late. There is no shame in running from these types of situations. Avoiding a fight may keep you out of the hospital…or the cemetery.
Fighting is a Last Resort
If you feel you can negotiate your way out of a situation, take that route over physical altercation. In some cases, there will be one “tough guy” who will not give up and who will follow you until you agree to fight. If escape is not an option and negotiations fail, you must do what you need to do to protect yourself and those surrounding you. The law will protect you when you act in self defense. Remember the saying: “It is better to be tried by twelve than carried by six.”
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