Defensive Strategies

Recognize when you are being "tested" as a victim and break away immediately

Predators often test a woman’s boundaries to gain proximity and size up her defenses. This can occur in a few seconds or over months. Learn to draw a line, to say NO and mean it. Do not be duped by ploys, listen to your gut.

If you are rendered immobile and cannot immediately resist, act at the first opening

Rape can abruptly escalate to a more violent, life-threatening attack, so you cannot wait to a better opportunity. Take advantage of any sliver of opportunity. The instant he fumbles with his or your clothing, changes positions, puts down a weapon, or prepares to strike or use a weapon - ATTACK! Some rapists initially establish dominance by use of force, so, instead of ineffectually struggling against brute strength, relax and wait or an opening.

If forced to wait, remain focused on the inside

Emotions and adrenaline will quickly flood the body and can induce panic or paralysis. Adrenaline is a key factor here. Its function is to prepare you for fight or flight. It revs the engine for action. If action is stifled, this energy may be misinterpreted as fear. When one is rendered paralyzed by fear, a feeling of dissociation or leaving one’s body may take over. This is the body's way of mitigating trauma and pain but it makes resistance difficult. To counter these feelings, plan: think about what part of my body is free, what targets are presenting, or where is the exit? To help counteract a racing mind and heart, lower your "center" and concentrate on deep breathing.

Do not test the waters

Do not make feeble attempts in an effort to test the attacker's reaction. Make your opening move count without telegraphing your intention. Initially, you might be able to lower his aggression, or at least his guard, by calmly talking to him or through physical contact, such as placing a hand on his knee, which gives you potential leverage and control. This also gets him used to seeing your hands so he will not think twice when you suddenly stab his face. When it is time to make you move, put your whole body and soul into the attack. Attack vulnerable regions

To commit a rape, an offender’s face or groin will likely be in your strike zone at some point. Viciously attack whatever he sticks out. Use dirty tactics: bite, gouge, seize-and-squeeze, slam, pound, and pummel.

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