Verbal Self Defense Requires Self Control and Mental Acuity

Self defense is more than just a well-placed kick or a fist full of keys pointing out between fingers. Verbal attacks often precede physical attacks and can be damaging and upsetting on their own as well.

When confronted with an attacker, verbal self defense can be used to de-escalate the situation. Rather than indulge the desire to return taunt for taunt or insult for insult, people in high charged situations would do well to hold their tongues or change the topic of conversation.

Agreeing with the attacker can be a good stalling technique as an exit plan is being formulated and can keep the attacker from becoming increasingly agitated. This can backfire, though, if the attacker wishes to pick a fight and is not given the satisfaction of riling up the other person. He or she may become agitated simply because the other person is not agitated.

Avoiding emotional responses to verbal attacks is vital to self defense, though. Emotional responses draw you into the argument and elicit further negative behavior from the attacker. It is important to remain detached so that you can maintain a heightened awareness of the situation and make decisions accordingly.

Examine the attacker’s reasons for their behavior and respond accordingly. For instance, a chronic harasser may be looking for any sort of attention–positive or negative–so the best response is no response.

Diverting attention or connecting with the attacker on a human level can stop the forward motion of an attack and calm the situation enough to avoid the step up to physical violence.

Verbal tactics can help prevent physical attacks.