Scaling Force

1. Self-Protection: Beyond Martial Arts and Fighting

What they fail to grasp is that you could be studying an amazingly effective system of fighting, but self-protection is not about fighting.

Martial arts vs. self-protection. Many people mistakenly equate martial arts or fighting skills with self-protection. While physical techniques are a component, self-protection encompasses a much broader skill set, including legal knowledge, conflict avoidance, and situational awareness.

Real-world consequences. The authors highlight the dangers of relying solely on fighting prowess for self-defense, noting that some skilled fighters end up in jail or with missing body parts due to poor self-protection skills. Self-protection is about keeping ourselves safe, right?

Holistic approach. True self-protection requires a comprehensive understanding of the law, conflict avoidance strategies, and the ability to use the right tools for the circumstances. It's about preventing violence, not just winning a fight.

2. Understanding the Legal Landscape of Self-Defense

A raw and horrible truth is most of what you think you know about self-defense is advertising, if not an outright lie.

Legal standards. Self-defense is a legal term, and actions will be judged by legal standards, not by what was taught in training or heard on internet forums. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, and thinking you are defending yourself does not make it so.

I.M.O.P. principle. The I.M.O.P. principle (Intent, Means, Opportunity, and Preclusion) is a critical framework for assessing the legality of using force in self-defense. All four criteria must be met to justify the use of force.

Affirmative defense. Self-defense is an affirmative defense, meaning you admit to committing a crime (e.g., assault) but argue that it was justified under the circumstances. If your self-defense plea fails, you will be punished for the underlying crime.

3. Scaling Force: A Continuum of Options

If you try to use Level 4 in a Level 5 situation, you will get hurt.

Force continuum. The book presents a six-level force continuum, ranging from presence to lethal force, providing a framework for choosing the appropriate response to any situation. The levels are:

• Presence
• Voice
• Touch
• Empty-hand restraint/physical control
• Less-lethal force
• Lethal force

Appropriate response. It's crucial to enter the force scale at the right level. Using too much or too little force can have serious consequences, including jail time, debilitating injury, or death.

Dynamic decision-making. The levels of force are not prescriptive; the appropriate response is the call of the person on the ground, based on a dynamic assessment of the situation.

4. Situational Awareness: The Foundation of Safety

Most self-defense experts agree that for the average citizen, the majority of dangers can be identified and avoided simply by learning how to look out for them.

Defining situational awareness. Situational awareness is knowing what is going on around you, including the ability to identify, process, and comprehend factors that can be important for your safety and welfare.

The victim interview. Criminals evaluate potential victims through an "interview" process, assessing their awareness and preparedness. The goal is to avoid being selected as an easy target by appearing calm and resolute.

The 4 D's. The 4 D's (Dialogue, Deception, Distraction, and Destruction) describe dirty tricks that sneak attackers often use to disguise their intent, get close enough to launch their assault, and keep you from responding until it is too late.

5. Social vs. Predatory Violence: Knowing the Difference

Social violence can be a big deal, predatory violence even more so; these are situations where you may be forced to defend yourself.

Social violence. Social violence involves conflicts over face or status, often with witnesses present. It can be de-escalated through clever words or a willingness to lose face.

Predatory violence. Predatory violence is a means to an end, such as robbery or rape, and is often carried out in secret. It can only be de-escalated by appearing too dangerous to attack.

Key differences. The factors that might de-escalate a social situation will almost certainly trigger a predatory attack if they make you appear weak. It's essential to recognize the type of violence you're facing to choose the appropriate response.

6. Verbal De-escalation: The Power of Voice

If you are in danger and taking damage, you must be working from much higher up on the force scale than verbals.

Voice as a tool. Verbal skills can be used to de-escalate conflict, raise the stakes for the aggressor, or provide a face-saving way out. However, they are not a substitute for physical force when facing an imminent threat.

Rate, tone, pitch, and volume. The rate, tone, pitch, and volume of your voice (RTPV) are critical components of effective communication, conveying emotion, intent, and commitment.

Strategic verbal de-escalation. Strategic verbal de-escalation involves changing the emotion, social context, or equation of the situation to defuse conflict. It requires active listening, empathy, and the ability to adapt your approach to the specific circumstances.

7. Touch as Communication: Calming, Directive, and More

Touching, at any level, is also something that an experienced threat can use as a hook.

Touch as a quasi-level. Touch is a quasi-level of force, as it involves physical contact but is still primarily a form of communication. It can be used to calm, direct, or distract, but it also carries legal and safety risks.

Types of touch. The book identifies four types of touch:

• Calming touch: Used to soothe and reassure
• Directive touch: Used to guide and control movement
• Distractive touch: Used to divert attention
• Projecting touch: Used to convey power and authority

Safety considerations. Any touch must be done with respect for your own safety, as it puts you within striking range of the other person. It's crucial to be prepared for things to go bad and to have a plan for escalating to a higher level of force if necessary.

8. The Importance of Physical Fitness and Presence

There is no downside to developing presence.

Fitness as a foundation. Physical fitness is a key component of presence, conveying confidence and competence. It also provides a basis for effective physical action if necessary.

Posture and stance. Posture and stance communicate your readiness and ability to act. A confident, athletic posture can deter potential aggressors, while a well-prepared stance allows you to react quickly and effectively.

Appearance and demeanor. Your appearance and demeanor also contribute to your presence, conveying messages about your confidence, competence, and willingness to defend yourself.

9. Lethal Force: A Last Resort, Not a First Choice

Level 6 is about killing people.

The gravity of lethal force. Level 6 is about deliberately taking a human life, a decision that carries immense legal, ethical, and psychological consequences.

Mindset for survival. A Level 6 mindset requires a willingness to do whatever it takes to survive, even if it means taking another person's life. It also requires an understanding of the legal and ethical ramifications of such actions.

Principles for survival. Principles for survival include being prepared, avoiding getting hit, embracing the pain, watching for weapons, cheating, expecting the unexpected, yelling for help, and managing the aftermath.

10. The Aftermath: Managing the Legal and Psychological Fallout

The aftermath of such an incident is often as ‘life threatening’ as the moment itself.

Legal consequences. If you use lethal force, expect to be arrested and prosecuted, even if you are completely innocent. It's crucial to have an attorney who specializes in self-defense cases.

Psychological trauma. Even if you are legally justified in using lethal force, you may experience significant psychological trauma, including PTSD, guilt, and grief. Seeking professional counseling can help you process these emotions and recover from the experience.

The importance of preparation. The best way to manage the aftermath of a violent encounter is to be prepared for it, both legally and psychologically. This includes understanding the law, developing a survival mindset, and having a plan for dealing with the consequences of your actions.

Last updated: February 28, 2025