Standing up to Stalking Behaviors
The decision to stand up to a stalker or attacker of any kind is a difficult decision to make. When we see people being intimidated or hurt, it may be simple to say “I would just walk away” or “I wouldn’t put up with that”. If a teen does decide to protect themselves from an assault or attack, there is much more than the physical aspects of self-defense to consider.
ACCESS has joined with the Story County Sheriff’s Office to offer PEP prevent, escape and protect) classes to teens and community members throughout Story county. Deputy Anthony Rhoad, a defensive tactics instructor and student of Ryukyu Kempo , has offered his expertise to instruct participants on the basics of escaping a threatening situation. Deputy Rhoad does not encourage the use of tactics to “stay and fight”. In most situations, a target’s main objective is to avoid losing control or choice in the situation, this includes being taken to a second location. For example, getting into an attackers car allows the attacker to then have greater control over what happens in the situation. The target can’t decide where to go, can’t call out for help, or may not be familiar with the surroundings once they get to a new location.
This concept of maintaining control or power to choose can be applied to a variety of decisions that a teen makes. If a teen uses problem solving and logic to increase their control or ability to make choices in a situation, then the teen’s vulnerability is greatly reduced. In presentations, teens are asked to identify what makes them vulnerable. Teens are surprising honest and aware about their vulnerabilities, from possibly being weaker than others to not having experience to know how to handle a situation.
This joint instruction of ACCESS and the Story County Sheriff’s office promotes decision making and personal responsibility as the main defense against an attack. In addition to this emphasis, simple and effective maneuvers are introduced to students that help build confidence and help them understand the basic concepts of escape and protecting oneself physically. Simplicity is the key to many of the maneuvers introduced.
If participants want to continue to build confidence or learn more about martial arts, Deputy Rhoad does offer classes through Nevada Park & Rec as well as Dickey’s Karate (382-4352).
To schedule PEP for your school or group, contact: Angie Schreck Sexual Assault Services Coordinator 515-292-0500 angie@assaultcarecenter.org
