Before the Attack: Recognizing the Behavioral Warning Signs of Violence

Violent encounters do not always begin with obvious aggression. Some offenders use ordinary conversation, requests for assistance, or seemingly harmless approaches to assess a potential victim's reactions. This episode examines the behavioral warning signs that may precede an assault, including repeated boundary violations, unwanted proximity, and attempts to isolate someone from others. We explore how situational awareness involves recognizing changes in behavior and context rather than treating every unfamiliar person as a potential threat.