Grayson & Stein Study (1981) on Victim Cues & Attacker Psychology

July 2025 (93 Words, 1 Minutes)

Movement is a process, rather than a series of static positions. This is an extension and a reflection of emotions and thoughts, and not merely something which occurs sporadically as the result of external stimuli..

What the Study Found

Grayson & Stein studied how attackers (like muggers) choose their victims. They filmed pedestrians walking and later showed the footage to convicted criminals. The criminals consistently picked certain individuals as “easy targets” within 7 seconds — based not on age, gender, or clothing, but on non-verbal cues.

Victim Cues Identified

Attackers subconsciously look for these vulnerability signals:

1. Gait (the way you walk)

   • Uncoordinated, slow, shuffling, hesitant, or unbalanced movement signals weakness.
   • Strong, upright, deliberate stride suggests confidence and control.

2. Posture

   • Slouched shoulders, looking down, or trying to appear invisible → seen as weak.
   • Erect spine, open chest, natural arm swing → seen as self-assured.

3. Awareness

   • Distracted (on phone, zoned out, nervous) = easy prey.
   • Alert, observant = harder target.

4. Eye Contact

   • No eye contact or darting eyes = fear/nervousness.
   • Calm eye contact (not aggressive) = confidence.

How to Protect Yourself (Practically)

You don’t need to be physically strong — just change your non-verbal behavior:

1. Walk with Purpose – Long strides, steady rhythm, firm steps.
2. Fix Your Posture – Head up, shoulders back, spine straight.
3. Stay Aware – Notice your environment. Avoid distractions (phones/music in risky areas).
4. Radiate Calm Confidence – Not aggressive, just aware and grounded.
5. Make Brief Eye Contact – A short, calm glance shows you’re alert and not fearful.

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