Precognitive Situational Control

 Yochi jōkyō seigyo [予知状況制御]

What follows here in our terms, explains a precognitive situational ability in perceiving certain things that by themselves mean the possibility of conflict and or violence. When we say avoidance, we're talking about these perceptions and pre-indicators that warn people that some sort of issue or problem may lead to conflict and violence.

In the following, you will notice some repetitive explanations under the heading of each term, and that's deliberate, simply because depending upon which one you use, they pretty much mean almost the same thing and it's important that you should be able to distinguish what is anomalous with each one in training.

Self-defense, or personal security, is a layered construct one creates to ensure safety, security, and the ability to protect oneself from predators who may cause grave harm and even death under the heading of self-defense.

Aura in Self Defense

Jiko bōei no tame no sonzai [自己防衛のための存在]

This topic gets into the psychology of violence, threat assessment, and how presence and “aura” can play a major role in preventing attacks before they start. Let me break this down for you with references:

1. What Is “Aura” in Self-Defense?

• In this context, aura refers to the perceived presence, confidence, and body languagethat a person projects.

• Psychologists call this nonverbal dominance (Carney, Cuddy, & Yap, 2010). It’s the combination of posture, eye contact, movement, and calm assertiveness that communicates to others whether someone looks like an easy target or a hard one.

👉 Criminals and predators often engage in victim selection based on perceived vulnerability, which is largely read from aura-like signals (Grayson & Stein, 1981).

2. How Aura Deters Attackers

a) Body Language as a Signal

• Attackers frequently “test” victims by observing how they carry themselves.

• In a landmark study, inmates serving time for violent assaults were shown videos of people walking on the street. They overwhelmingly chose certain individuals as likely targets based on gait, posture, and apparent awareness (Grayson & Stein, 1981, Journal of Communication).

• Those who walked with confidence, head up, balanced stride, and alert posture were consistently rated as less attractive targets.

b) Eye Contact & Presence

• Appropriate eye contact (not aggressive staring, but aware acknowledgment) communicates that you are alert and prepared.

• Criminology studies suggest that predators avoid people who signal awareness, because surprise is their main weapon (Felson, 1996, Routine Activity Theory).

c) Confidence as a Psychological Barrier

• Self-defense instructors emphasize that showing fear, hesitation, or submissiveness can embolden an attacker.

• Conversely, projecting calm confidence creates uncertainty in the attacker: “This one might fight back. This one might be trained.”

3. Aura in Practice: Psychological Self-Defense

• Command presence: Law enforcement uses this term to describe a combination of posture, voice control, and authority projection that discourages aggression before force is necessary (Grossman, 2004, On Combat).

• Gray Rock vs. Aura: While gray rock techniques (blending in, showing no reaction) work for avoiding narcissists or stalkers, aura projection works in public spaces against opportunistic attackers by signaling that you’re not low-hanging fruit.

• Boundary setting: Using a strong, assertive voice (“Back off!”) combined with firm posture can end many encounters before they escalate (Van der Kolk, 2014).

4. Martial Arts and the Cultivation of Aura

• Many martial arts traditions stress that the true goal is not to fight, but to carry oneself in a way that prevents violence from arising.

• Karate: “Karate ni sente nashi” (no first attack) also implies cultivating presence so one is not provoked (Funakoshi, 1975).

• Aikido: Emphasizes projecting calm, centered energy that makes attackers hesitate (Ueshiba, 1992).

• Training in striking, body conditioning, and awareness drills increases a person’s confidence, which directly translates into a more powerful aura.

5. Practical Components of an Aura That Deters

1. Posture – shoulders back, balanced stance.

2. Head up – scanning environment, not glued to phone.

3. Eye contact – brief but confident acknowledgment.

4. Movement – smooth, controlled, not rushed or timid.

5. Voice – calm but firm when addressing strangers.

6. Breathing – steady, not shallow or panicked.

6. Why This Works

• Most street assaults are opportunistic (Wright & Decker, 1997, Armed Robbers in Action).

• Attackers seek the highest reward with the lowest risk. Aura shifts the cost-benefit analysis: a confident, aware person signals risk is higher.

✅ References

• Grayson, B., & Stein, M. I. (1981). Attracting Assault: Victims’ Nonverbal Cues. Journal of Communication, 31(1), 68–75.

• Carney, D. R., Cuddy, A. J. C., & Yap, A. J. (2010). Power Posing: Brief Nonverbal Displays Affect Neuroendocrine Levels and Risk Tolerance. Psychological Science, 21(10), 1363–1368.

• Felson, M. (1996). Crime and Everyday Life. Pine Forge Press.

• Grossman, D. (2004). On Combat: The Psychology and Physiology of Deadly Conflict in War and in Peace. Warrior Science Publications.

• Funakoshi, G. (1975). Karate-Do: My Way of Life. Kodansha.

• Ueshiba, M. (1992). The Art of Peace. Shambhala.

• Van der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score. Viking.

• Wright, R., & Decker, S. (1997). Armed Robbers in Action: Stickups and Street Culture. Northeastern University Press.

Nonverbal Dominance

Higengoteki yūi-sei [非言語的優位性]

Nonverbal dominance is a crucial but often overlooked aspect of self-defense. It’s the way you project confidence, control, and awareness through body language and presence, which can prevent violent encounters before they start. Let’s go in depth.

1. Definition of Nonverbal Dominance

Nonverbal dominance is the ability to assert influence or control through physical cues rather than words. In self-defense, this translates to signaling to a potential attacker that you are alert, confident, and not an easy target.

Key components include:

• Posture – standing tall, shoulders back, feet balanced.

• Eye contact – steady but non-threatening, signaling awareness.

• Gestures and movement – smooth, deliberate, unhesitant.

• Facial expression – neutral to confident, avoiding fear or panic signals.

• Proxemics – maintaining appropriate distance to control the space around you.

2. Why Nonverbal Dominance Matters in Self-Defense

Research shows that most violent attacks are opportunistic, meaning attackers select targets they perceive as weak or unsure (Felson, 1996). Nonverbal dominance can:

• Reduce the likelihood of an attack by projecting strength and readiness.

• Influence the attacker’s risk assessment—a confident, aware person appears more difficult to control.

• Buy critical time to de-escalate, escape, or prepare for defensive action.

Criminology studies indicate that predators unconsciously assess potential victims’ vulnerability through body language, gaze, and demeanor (Grayson & Stein, 1981).

3. Components of Nonverbal Dominance in Self-Defense

a) Posture

• Open, upright stance signals confidence.

     • Avoid closed-off positions (hunched shoulders, crossed arms) which suggest vulnerability.

• Martial arts emphasize stances (e.g., fighting stance, ready posture) that naturally communicate readiness without aggression (Grossman, 2004).

b) Eye Contact

• Steady eye contact signals situational awareness and self-assurance.

     • Avoid staring aggressively; instead, acknowledge presence and scan environment.

• Research in social psychology shows that eye contact increases perceived dominance and authority (Carney, Cuddy, & Yap, 2010).

c) Movement and Gestures

• Smooth, deliberate movements convey control.

     • Quick, erratic, or timid movements can signal nervousness or fear, inviting an attack.

• Martial arts training often incorporates movement drills that reinforce deliberate control and calm presence.

d) Voice (When Used)

• Firm, calm voice when asserting boundaries can reinforce nonverbal dominance.

• A clear verbal boundary combined with confident body language often stops aggression before it escalates (Van der Kolk, 2014).

e) Spatial Awareness

• Controlling personal space through positioning communicates assertiveness.

• Attackers often test proximity; a strong nonverbal response can prevent escalation.

4. Practical Application

Nonverbal dominance is not about intimidation; it’s about projecting competence, calm, and readiness:

• Walk with purpose, head up, shoulders back.

• Maintain relaxed but alert posture.

• Scan your environment regularly.

• Use controlled gestures and deliberate movements.

• Combine with situational awareness and pre-incident indicators (e.g., noticing suspicious behaviors early).

5. Supporting Research

1. Grayson & Stein (1981) – Victim selection in violent crime is influenced by nonverbal cues.

2. Carney, Cuddy, & Yap (2010) – “Power posing” affects perceived dominance, risk tolerance, and confidence.

3. Felson (1996) – Routine Activity Theory: attackers seek low-risk targets; perceived strength deters aggression.

4. Grossman (2004), On Combat – Command presence and body language reduce likelihood of violent engagement.

5. Van der Kolk (2014), The Body Keeps the Score – Calm body presence communicates resilience, discouraging aggression.

6. Key Takeaways

• Nonverbal dominance is a preventive self-defense tool, not a weapon.

• It works by influencing the attacker’s perception of risk and ease of attack.

• Body language, posture, movement, eye contact, and voice all contribute.

• Regular practice, through martial arts, awareness drills, and posture exercises, strengthens your natural projection of dominance.

Victim Selection based on Perceived Vulnerability

Seijakusei no ninshiki ni motodzuku higaisha no sentaku [脆弱性の認識に基づく被害者の選択]

Understanding victim selection based on perceived vulnerability is a key concept in self-defense because it explains why some people are targeted more often than others and how projecting confidence and awareness can reduce your risk. Let’s break it down thoroughly.

1. Definition of Victim Selection Based on Perceived Vulnerability

Victim selection is the process by which offenders identify potential targets based on perceived weakness, inattention, or lack of defensive capability.

• Offenders generally seek low-risk, high-reward opportunities, which means they target people who appear easy to control or unlikely to resist (Felson, 1996).

• Perceived vulnerability is not necessarily real—it’s based on observable cues, such as body language, posture, eye contact, gait, or distraction.

2. Psychology Behind Victim Selection

a) Risk Assessment by Offenders

• Offenders conduct a rapid, often subconscious, risk assessment before deciding to attack.

• They look for signs of:

• Fear, timidity, or hesitation

• Lack of environmental awareness

• Physical weakness or disability

• Distraction (e.g., phone use, headphones)

• The higher the perceived vulnerability, the more likely the person is to be targeted (Grayson & Stein, 1981; Wright & Decker, 1997).

b) Routine Activity Theory

• Felson’s Routine Activity Theory (1996) emphasizes that crime occurs when:

1. A motivated offender is present

2. A suitable target is identified

3. There is absence of capable guardianship

• Perceived vulnerability directly informs whether a person is seen as a “suitable target.”

c) Opportunity and Effort Minimization

• Most violent and property crimes are opportunistic, not pre-planned.

• Offenders are more likely to bypass confident, aware, or assertive individuals because attacking them increases risk and effort (Felson, 1996).

3. Behavioral Indicators of Perceived Vulnerability

These cues make an individual appear “soft” or “easy” to manipulate, increasing risk of assault (Grayson & Stein, 1981).

4. Practical Self-Defense Implications

• Project confidence and awareness to reduce perceived vulnerability.

• Maintain upright posture, controlled gait, and purposeful movements.

• Scan your environment and make occasional eye contact with strangers.

• Increase situational awareness: noticing exits, crowd flow, and potential hazards signals to offenders that you are prepared.

• Set boundaries assertively when approached—firm voice and controlled gestures reduce likelihood of engagement.

• Environmental design: choose well-lit areas, avoid isolated locations, and walk near other people if possible.

5. Martial Arts Perspective

• Many martial arts emphasize presence and readiness not just for fighting, but for deterring attacks.

• Okinawan Karate and Aikido focus on projection of calm, confident energy to prevent escalation.

• Training posture, stance, and movement develops physical and psychological cues that make a person appear less vulnerable.

6. Supporting Research

1. Grayson & Stein (1981) – Nonverbal cues heavily influence offender victim selection; confident posture and gait reduce targeting.

2. Felson, M. (1996). Crime and Everyday Life – Routine Activity Theory explains that situational vulnerability attracts offenders.

3. Wright, R., & Decker, S. (1997). Armed Robbers in Action – Field interviews show offenders consciously select victims they perceive as weak or unaware.

4. Cornish, D., & Clarke, R. V. (2003). Opportunities, Precipitators, and Criminal Decision-Making – Offenders weigh effort vs. reward; perceived vulnerability lowers the effort threshold.

7. Key Takeaways

• Most attacks are opportunistic, not random; perceived vulnerability determines target selection.

• Your body language, awareness, and assertiveness are critical tools to reduce perceived vulnerability.

• Simple behavioral changes—upright posture, eye contact, alertness, and confident gait—can make you less likely to be targeted.

• Martial arts and self-defense training reinforce these cues, making them automatic under stress.

Aware Acknowledgment

Ninshiki sa reta shōnin [認識された承認]

Aware acknowledgment is a subtle but extremely powerful tool in self-defense, often overlooked in traditional martial arts but widely discussed in situational awareness and crime prevention literature. Let’s dive deep.

1. Definition of Aware Acknowledgment

Aware acknowledgment is the act of consciously recognizing potential threats or people in your environment without engaging aggressively, using nonverbal cues to signal that you are alert, present, and aware.

• It’s nonverbal communication of situational awareness.

• In criminology and self-defense, it’s known to deter opportunistic attackers because they prefer victims who appear unaware or distracted (Felson, 1996).

Key aspects:

• Visual acknowledgment: Brief eye contact, scanning, or nod to show you notice the other person.

• Postural acknowledgment: Slight adjustments in stance or body orientation toward potential threats.

• Behavioral acknowledgment: Minor gestures or reactions that indicate alertness without provocation.

2. Why It Works in Self-Defense

a) Influences Perpetrator Risk Assessment

• Offenders often select victims perceived as distracted, timid, or unaware (Grayson & Stein, 1981; Wright & Decker, 1997).

• Aware acknowledgment signals: “I see you, and I am alert,” which increases the perceived risk for the offender.

b) Non-Aggressive Deterrence

• Unlike confrontational behaviors, aware acknowledgment is preemptive and subtle, reducing the likelihood of escalation.

• It communicates presence and confidence without verbal confrontation, which is crucial in crowded or public settings.

c) Maintains Situational Control

• By consciously noting people or situations, you gain cognitive and physical preparation time for defensive action if needed.

• Even a small, deliberate acknowledgment allows your brain to register cues, activating threat detection pathways (LeDoux, 1996).

3. Practical Methods of Aware Acknowledgment

1. Eye Contact

• Brief, deliberate, and confident—avoid staring aggressively.

• A quick scan of people around you in public spaces shows awareness.

2. Body Orientation

• Slightly orienting your torso or feet toward people entering your space signals attention.

• Open posture communicates confidence; closed posture signals vulnerability.

3. Subtle Verbal Cues (Optional)

• Soft, calm comments like “Excuse me” when someone approaches too closely can assert presence without aggression.

4. Scanning and Environmental Mapping

• Regularly scan your environment: exits, people, vehicles, and potential hazards.

• Recognizing patterns, unusual behavior, or isolated individuals can alert you to early risk.

5. Breath and Rhythm

• Maintain calm, even breathing while scanning; panicked or erratic movements undermine the effect.

4. Self-Defense Principles Reinforced by Aware Acknowledgment

• Prevention over reaction: Most self-defense experts emphasize avoiding confrontation entirely if possible (Grossman, 2004).

• Nonverbal dominance: Awareness projects confidence, assertiveness, and readiness, deterring attackers before physical conflict occurs.

• Martial arts philosophy:

• Karate: “Karate ni sente nashi” (“no first attack”) emphasizes avoiding fights by presence and readiness.

• Aikido: teaches perception of intent and energy in others to redirect or neutralize threats.

5. Supporting Research

1. Grayson & Stein (1981) – Nonverbal cues, including acknowledgment and posture, strongly influence victim selection.

2. Felson, M. (1996). Crime and Everyday Life – Routine activity theory; offenders target unaware, inattentive, or isolated individuals.

3. Wright & Decker (1997). Armed Robbers in Action – Offenders deliberately avoid people who display alertness or acknowledgment of their presence.

4. Grossman, D. (2004). On Combat – Command presence, including aware acknowledgment, reduces risk of confrontation.

5. LeDoux, J. (1996). The Emotional Brain – Awareness and recognition activate threat detection pathways, enhancing defensive readiness.

6. Key Takeaways

• Aware acknowledgment is a subtle but effective deterrent, signaling alertness and confidence to potential attackers.

• It relies on eye contact, posture, scanning, and minor gestures—not aggression.

• Integrating it into your daily routine, along with situational awareness, lowers perceived vulnerability and improves preemptive self-defense.

• Martial arts and self-defense training naturally enhance this ability by fostering calm alertness and confident presence.

Command Presence

Shiji [指示] Menzen [面前

Command presence is one of the most important concepts in self-defense, law enforcement, and personal safety. It’s essentially the projection of confidence, authority, and awareness that deters potential threats before they escalate into physical confrontation. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

1. Definition of Command Presence

Command presence is the ability to project an aura of confidence and control through body language, voice, and behavior, so that potential aggressors perceive you as someone not to be challenged.

• In self-defense, it is preemptive and psychological, often preventing attacks without physical engagement.

• It combines nonverbal dominance, situational awareness, and assertive communication.

Key components:

• Posture and stance

• Eye contact and facial expression

• Voice tone and volume

• Controlled movements and gestures

• Awareness and scanning of the environment

2. Why Command Presence Matters

a) Deters Opportunistic Attackers

• Studies show that most street assaults are opportunistic, targeting individuals perceived as weak, distracted, or unaware (Felson, 1996; Wright & Decker, 1997).

• Command presence signals to offenders that you are alert, prepared, and potentially capable of defending yourself, increasing the perceived risk and decreasing the likelihood of attack.

b) Reduces Need for Physical Confrontation

• By projecting confidence, you often prevent escalation, making physical self-defense unnecessary.

• Law enforcement and military studies consistently show that officers with strong command presence are less likely to face aggression during routine encounters (Grossman, 2004).

c) Enhances Personal Safety in Groups and Public Spaces

• Command presence works in crowded environments as well; it communicates that you are not an easy target, even without speaking.

• It also reinforces your internal state of readiness, which improves reaction time and decision-making if conflict occurs.

3. Components of Command Presence in Self-Defense

a) Posture and Stance

• Stand upright, shoulders back, feet shoulder-width apart.

• Avoid slouching or closed-off positions; open, grounded posture signals confidence.

b) Eye Contact and Facial Expression

• Maintain brief, confident eye contact with people approaching you.

• Facial expression should be neutral to assertive—not fearful, panicked, or overly aggressive.

c) Voice and Tone

• Use a calm, firm, and clear voice when asserting boundaries.

• Statements like “Stop” or “Back off” delivered confidently can prevent escalation.

d) Controlled Movements

• Deliberate, purposeful movements convey self-assurance.

• Avoid nervous fidgeting, rapid steps, or erratic gestures that signal fear.

e) Situational Awareness

• Actively scan your environment, noting exits, hazards, and potential threats.

• Aware acknowledgment of others subtly communicates that you are observant and prepared.

4. Application in Martial Arts and Self-Defense

• Martial arts philosophy emphasizes that true mastery is preventative: the best defense is deterrence through presence.

• Karate: “Karate ni sente nashi” – no first attack; presence and awareness prevent provocation.

• Aikido: sensing intent and projecting calm energy to avoid conflict.

• Tactical training for law enforcement and military personnel explicitly trains command presence to reduce encounters with aggression.

5. Supporting Research

1. Grossman, D. (2004). On Combat – Command presence reduces the likelihood of physical confrontation; body language, voice, and awareness are key.

2. Felson, M. (1996). Crime and Everyday Life – Routine Activity Theory: offenders target the unaware or vulnerable; command presence reduces perceived vulnerability.

3. Wright, R., & Decker, S. (1997). Armed Robbers in Action – Offenders consciously avoid individuals who project awareness and confidence.

4. Carney, Cuddy, & Yap (2010). Power Posing and Nonverbal Dominance – Body posture and nonverbal cues influence perceived authority and risk.

6. Key Takeaways

• Command presence is psychological, preventative self-defense.

• It combines posture, movement, voice, facial expression, and situational awareness.

• Projecting confidence and readiness reduces the likelihood of being targeted.

• Martial arts and tactical training enhance command presence through repetitive practice and situational drills.

Pre-incident Indicators

Jiken mae [事件前] Shihyō [指標]

Pre-incident indicators (PINS) are one of the most critical elements of self-defense because they allow you to recognize danger before it becomes physical. This concept is especially emphasized in criminology, psychology of violence, and modern self-defense training. Let’s break it down thoroughly:

1. Definition of Pre-Incident Indicators (PINS)

Pre-incident indicators are observable cues, behaviors, or environmental signs that suggest a violent act or criminal attack may be imminent.

• Term popularized by Gavin de Becker in The Gift of Fear (1997).

• These indicators are often nonverbal, behavioral, or situational—they reveal intent before the actual act occurs.

• Recognizing them allows for early escape, de-escalation, or defensive readiness.

2. Why Pre-Incident Indicators Matter

• Most violence is not random; attackers display subtle warning signs while deciding whether to act.

• Violent offenders often “test” or “probe” potential victims (Wright & Decker, 1997).

• Recognizing PINS gives you the gift of time - time to avoid, prepare, or respond.

• Self-defense experts stress that situational awareness without understanding PINS is incomplete (Grossman, 2004).

3. Common Pre-Incident Indicators

Here are some of the most widely documented PINS in self-defense literature:

a) Approach & Positioning

• Target glancing: Offender repeatedly looks at you or your possessions.

• Closing distance: Someone moves into your personal space unnecessarily.

• Positioning: Offender maneuvers to block your path or flank you.

(Grayson & Stein, 1981; de Becker, 1997)

b) Verbal & Social Manipulation

• Unsolicited promises: “I swear I won’t hurt you.” (signals intent is already being considered).

• Forced teaming: Using “we” to create false rapport (“Looks like we’re stuck here together.”).

• Charm as a strategy: Overly friendly behavior used to lower defenses.

(de Becker, 1997)

c) Behavioral Cues

• Grooming gestures: Adjusting clothing, checking waistband (often concealing a weapon).

• Scanning behavior: Looking for witnesses, cameras, or escape routes.

• Predatory focus: Fixated attention on you while ignoring others.

(Van Horne & Riley, 2014, Left of Bang)

d) Environmental/Contextual Cues

• Unusual presence: Someone loitering in a place with no legitimate purpose.

• Synchrony with accomplices: Multiple people subtly coordinating.

• Sudden silence in a group: Social dynamic shifts often precede aggression.

e) Physiological / Nonverbal Cues

• Target hardening: Squaring up stance, puffing chest, clenching fists.

• Adrenaline cues: Flushed face, rapid breathing, fidgeting before acting.

(Grossman, 2004; LeDoux, 1996)

4. Frameworks for Understanding PINS

a) de Becker’s Framework (Gift of Fear)

• Intuition + recognition of subtle cues = survival advantage.

• He emphasizes trusting gut instincts when you notice odd or manipulative behavior.

b) Combat Hunter / “Left of Bang” (USMC Program)

• Pre-incident indicators are part of anomalous behavior detection.

• Categories: baseline (normal environment), anomalies (what doesn’t fit), and indicators(patterns suggesting intent).

c) Routine Activity Theory (Felson, 1996)

• Offenders search for “suitable targets”; PINS are often the behaviors shown while assessing risk.

5. Application in Self-Defense

• Trust intuition: If something feels “off,” it probably is.

• Exit early: If you detect multiple PINS, leaving the area is safer than staying.

• Boundary setting: Assertive acknowledgment (“Can I help you?” with strong tone) can disrupt offender probing.

• Prepare mentally: Recognizing cues shifts you from white/yellow alertness to orange/red readiness (Cooper’s Color Code).

6. Supporting Research & References

1. de Becker, G. (1997). The Gift of Fear – Seminal work on intuition and pre-incident indicators.

2. Grayson, B., & Stein, M. I. (1981). Attracting Assault: Victims’ Nonverbal Cues – Criminals select victims based on perceived awareness and vulnerability.

3. Felson, M. (1996). Crime and Everyday Life – Routine Activity Theory; offenders probe for opportunity and vulnerability.

4. Wright, R., & Decker, S. (1997). Armed Robbers in Action – Interviews with criminals: they consciously test and evaluate victims before acting.

5. Grossman, D. (2004). On Combat – Explains physiological signs and behavioral indicators of imminent violence.

6. Van Horne, P., & Riley, J. (2014). Left of Bang – Military-based behavioral cue recognition for threat detection.

7. LeDoux, J. (1996). The Emotional Brain – Neuroscience of fear response and early threat detection.

7. Key Takeaways

• Pre-incident indicators are observable cues that give advance warning of danger.

• Offenders rarely attack “out of nowhere”; they leave behavioral and situational tells.

• Training in recognizing and acting on PINS increases safety dramatically.

• Self-defense isn’t just about fighting—it’s about avoiding fights entirely through awareness and early action.

Anomalous Behavior Detection

Ijō kōdō kenshutsu [異常行動検出]

Anomalous Behavior Detection is at the heart of situational awareness and modern self-defense training. It’s about spotting the “signal in the noise”—identifying when something (or someone) doesn’t fit the normal baseline of an environment, which often reveals pre-incident indicators of violence. Let’s break it down.

1. Definition of Anomalous Behavior Detection

Anomalous behavior detection is the practice of establishing a baseline of normal behavior in an environment, then recognizing deviations (“anomalies”) that may indicate a threat.

• Core principle of the USMC’s Combat Hunter program, later popularized in Van Horne & Riley’s Left of Bang (2014).

• In self-defense, it means learning to quickly notice what feels “off” in people’s movements, body language, positioning, or demeanor.

2. Why It Matters in Self-Defense

• Most attackers give off subtle signals before acting. (Grayson & Stein, 1981; de Becker, 1997).

• By detecting anomalies, you gain decision-making time—the critical advantage in self-defense (Grossman, 2004).

• Prevents being “caught off guard”—violence is rarely truly sudden; it’s preceded by observable cues.

3. The Baseline–Anomaly Framework

a) Establishing the Baseline

• Every environment has a “normal” pattern of behavior:

• In a coffee shop: people talk quietly, wait in line, check phones.

• On a bus: people face forward, keep to themselves.

• Baseline = what fits naturally in context.

b) Identifying the Anomaly

• An anomaly is any behavior, action, or presence that doesn’t match the baseline.

      • Example anomalies:

• A person loitering in a parking lot without a clear reason.

• Someone wearing a heavy coat on a hot day.

• A person scanning exits, but not engaging in normal activities.

• These anomalies are not proof of threat, but they trigger heightened attention and preparation.

4. Categories of Anomalous Behavior (per Left of Bang)

Van Horne & Riley (2014) outline six domains of human behavior for detecting anomalies:

1. Kinesics (body language)

• Clenched fists, nervous pacing, predatory staring.

2. Biometrics (physiological signs)

• Sweating, rapid breathing, flushed face—adrenaline cues.

3. Proxemics (use of space)

• Closing distance unnecessarily, positioning to flank.

4. Geographics (place usage)

• Someone out of place (e.g., loitering in shadows where others don’t).

5. Iconography (symbols, clothing, insignia)

• Wearing gang colors, hate symbols, or tactical gear in civilian space.

6. Atmospherics (emotional tone of the environment)

• A sudden silence or shift in crowd energy before a fight breaks out.

5. Examples in Everyday Self-Defense

• Street encounter: Everyone on a sidewalk is walking one way, but one person is loitering, watching pedestrians intently—possible predatory anomaly.

• Parking lot: A man sits in a car with engine running, scanning people walking by but not leaving—possible setup for robbery.

• Social setting: A group is laughing and talking, but one individual is quiet, tense, and scanning aggressively—potential aggression about to erupt.

6. How to Train Anomalous Behavior Detection

1. Baseline drills: When you enter any environment, consciously note the baseline (sound, movement, spacing).

2. Red flag recognition: Practice spotting 1–2 things that “don’t fit.”

3. Situational games: Play “what’s out of place?” in public to sharpen perception.

4. Martial integration: Combine with Cooper’s Color Code—move from Yellow (relaxed alert) to Orange (specific potential threat) when anomalies are detected.

7. Supporting Research & References

• Van Horne, P., & Riley, J. (2014). Left of Bang – Defines anomalous behavior detection through the six domains of human behavior.

• de Becker, G. (1997). The Gift of Fear – Intuition often detects anomalies before conscious awareness.

• Grayson, B., & Stein, M. I. (1981). Attracting Assault: Victims’ Nonverbal Cues – Criminals select victims based on anomalous weakness cues.

• Grossman, D. (2004). On Combat – Awareness and early anomaly detection prevent surprise attacks.

• Felson, M. (1996). Crime and Everyday Life – Offenders exploit anomalies in routine activity patterns.

• LeDoux, J. (1996). The Emotional Brain – Explains how the amygdala reacts to anomalies (fear response) faster than conscious thought.

8. Key Takeaways

• Baseline = normal; anomaly = potential threat.

• Not every anomaly is a threat—but every threat is preceded by anomalies.

• Training your eye for anomalies enhances situational awareness and proactive self-defense.

• This skill helps you act “left of bang” (before violence occurs), giving you time to exit, set boundaries, or prepare to defend.