Kidnap Survival Tactic: Do the Opposite

I used to teach in an institutional setting (i.e., a school). It put me in despair, at times, that I could give what I thought to be simple, clear instructions and yet some students would do just the opposite. Their excuse? "But you said . . . ."

While this trait is maddening in people (and teen-agers), it can spell the difference between survival and death in kidnap attempts. If an orc tries to snatch a woman or child, he often gives instructions: "Don't scream;" "Hold still;" "Get in the van." That's when the intended victim should do the opposite. Here's why . . .

The orc normally snatches people on the fringes of activity, say the farther reaches of a mall parking lot. People are within range of sight or hearing, but are not likely to notice what's going on, unless something draws their attention. Thus, when a predator gives you instructions, it is because it is to his distinct disadvantage for you to do the opposite.

Therefore, your survival chances go up if you do whatever he tells you not to do. And whatever you do, don't let him take you to a secondary location. The only reason he has to take you somewhere else is to do something to you that is too risky right where you are.

Statistically, your survival chances plummet if you are taken to a secondary location. If you think "Don't scream" is scary, imagine hearing, "Go ahead, scream all you want."

There is more to say on this topic. Perhaps in another post. In the meantime, I would recommend you see Marc MacYoung's "Safe in the Street" (sorry, available in VHS only). I'm adding it to my "Best Resources I've Found" list. I've had my family watch it more than once.