Deter

Make yourself a harder target before an attack develops.

🛑 What “Deter” Means

Deter is everything you do to discourage someone from choosing you as a target.

It is not aggression and it is not confrontation. It is about projecting awareness, confidence, and boundaries so risk increases for the offender.

👀 Why Deterrence Works

Most offenders want ease, speed, and low risk. Deterrence changes that calculation.

• You look alert, not distracted
• You appear confident, not unsure
• You set boundaries early
• You increase attention and witnesses

🧍 Posture & Movement

• Head up, eyes forward
• Purposeful walking pace
• Arms free, hands visible
• Balanced stance, not shuffling

Good posture communicates awareness and readiness — without aggression.

🗣️ Voice & Boundaries

Clear verbal boundaries often stop situations early.

• Firm, calm tone
• Short, clear phrases
• No apologies or explanations
• Repeat once if needed

Example: “Stop there.” / “That’s close enough.”

🧠 Awareness Signals

Simple signals tell others you are not an easy target:

• Making brief eye contact, then scanning
• Changing position confidently
• Standing side-on, not square or passive
• Protecting personal space early

⚠️ Key Principle

Deterrence is not about dominance.
It is about increasing perceived risk and reducing opportunity.

🧠 Deter Awareness Quiz

Your answers will be explained.