How to Identify Nonverbal Indicators of Violence
Keeping an eye out for these types of actions and stopping a student before a situation escalates will enable school staff to maintain a safe environment.
Some nonverbal cues of violence are hands on the head, clenched fists, and removing clothing.
Removing Clothing
Similar to grasping the head or wringing the hands, removing clothing is another way for a person to release built up anger and frustration. By shedding articles of clothing, the person is attempting to “lighten his load.”
There is another reason that a person will remove articles of clothing. By taking off a hat, coat or jacket, the person is freeing his or her body from restrictions. A person who throws a punch while wearing a T-shirt will find it much easier than punching while wearing a jacket. By taking off layers of clothing, the person is preparing for a fight.
Taking Preventive Action is Crucial
All of the aforementioned indicators should be examined together in relation to the circumstances under which they occur. Furthermore, nonverbal clues should be examined in conjunction with verbal indicators. A student who displays only one of these indicators may not become violent, but a person who displays numerous indicators should be closely monitored. (Also, be aware that some people simply do not display any indicators prior to a violent attack.)
Something else to keep in mind is that the younger the student, the more he or she will test a situation before becoming violent. While an adult may not display any indicators prior to attacking someone, a young child will “test the water” over an extended period of time. As the student feels out the situation, he or she builds confidence.
Taking preventive actions during this “testing” phase is essential. Doing so tells the student that his or her behavior is inappropriate and will not be tolerated. If the student feels the “water is too deep,” he or she will, in most cases, stop and not become violent.
There is no one cure-all or “silver bullet” to prevent violence. However, recognizing warning signs and taking immediate and appropriate action to stop the behavior is a substantial step in the right direction.
Bret Brooks is a senior instructor for Gray Ram Tactical LLC, a full-time police officer, a SWAT team sniper, and a captain in the U.S. Army. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice, a Master of Arts degree in national security, and has focused numerous studies on terrorism and violence. He can be reached at bretbrooks@grayramtacticaltraining.com. This article originally ran in School Bus Fleet magazine.
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