Is Aggression the Answer to Violence?

Some women are hesitant to strike out at an attacker for fear that it will anger the assailant even more. But research suggests that, in many instances, fighting back and trying to run away from an attacker is usually a woman's best defense. While it may not be appropriate in every situation—such as when an attacker has a weapon—studies show that active resistance, such as kicking the assailant in the groin, poking him in the eyes, or running away, can reduce a woman's risk of sexual assault. Evidence also suggests that women who take the opposite approach—crying or pleading with the attacker—are more likely to get hurt. This type of vulnerable behavior sometimes increases an attacker's sense of power over a woman.

Several reports suggest that women who avoided acquaintance rape were likely to have acted defensively—for example, screaming, using verbal threats, or running away. Assertive behavior may also be effective against robbery and physical assault. Forty-six graduates of a self-defense program decided to fight back when mugged. The majority reported they were able to knock out their assailants and escape, and the rest weakened their attackers enough to avoid further harm.