Identify an Unsuspecting Target

In Gracie University’s Women Empowered® program, we learn about the four phases of an attack by a stranger. When we are able to recognize these phases, we can then know what to do to keep ourselves safe. 

The four phases are as follows:

1 Identify an unsuspecting target

2 Subdue and isolate the target

3 Control and exhaust the target 

4 Carry out the assault 

The first phase is the most important to understand because when understood, we can prevent most attacks directed to us by a stranger. Before completing the Women Empowered® program, I would typically run my errands with AirPods in, listening to music, thinking about what to fix for dinner, or any other random thing; not really paying attention to my surroundings. I was not mindful about how many people were around me, or who they were. I also did my best to NOT make eye contact with men. I think subconsciously I believed that if I do not see them, then they do not see me. This made me the perfect target. 

Now when I’m running errands, I’m paying attention to my surroundings; both with my eyes and my ears. My head is held high, with shoulders back. I make eye contact with the men I pass. I want them to know I see them. I see their face, and can identify them. 

I am no longer an unsuspecting target and the likelihood of being attacked is significantly less.