Perceptions are quick, acute, and intuitive cognitions (Merriam Webster Dictionary). They are impressions of the world that correspond more or less to some aspect of what is out there. Perceptions may not be a great source of statistical knowledge but they’re often informative enough to keep us from harm.
When we perceive danger, we adjust our behavior accordingly. By changing our behavior, we also change our environment. If enough people take proactive action to mitigate a perceived danger, the original danger may subside, though it’s likely to return if our vigilance slackens too quickly. So it’s unsurprising that…
Vigilance has a tendency to linger, which is a good thing. Humans would have never made it to this day if they let down their guard as soon as a danger passed. Just because the tiger went back in the jungle doesn’t mean it’s not nearby, ready to pounce at the first opportunity. Crime Perceptions and Reality across Four Decades
Which is just another way of saying it’s good for people to remain worried about crime when crime rates are dropping. And it’s understandable that many Americans think crime is still rising when the rates remain too high. After all, perceptions makes no claims on statistical knowledge. Perceptions are there to guide behavior, to help us survive and thrive.
Sensing danger increases vigilance and vigilant behavior discourages criminals by reducing opportunities (easy victims) and increasing costs (time, effort) relative to payoff (money, status, sex).
Care of AI Overview, here are some examples of what I’m talking about:
Maintaining situational awareness
Scanning your surroundings: People look around and use all their senses to stay alert for unusual activity, rather than being distracted by a phone or headphones.
Identifying escape routes: A common practice is to note potential exits as soon as you enter a public space, such as a store, theater, or event venue.
Walking with purpose: Appearing confident and walking at a steady pace can make a person seem less vulnerable to potential attackers.
Trusting your instincts: If a person or situation feels "off," people are advised to listen to their gut feeling and leave the area.
Avoiding high-risk situations
Choosing safe areas: This includes sticking to well-lit, populated streets, especially at night, and avoiding isolated places like dark alleys or parking lots.
Reducing conspicuousness: People avoid drawing attention to themselves by not displaying expensive items like jewelry or gadgets and dressing to "blend in" with the crowd.
Traveling with others: Whenever possible, people use a "buddy system" or walk in groups, as there is safety in numbers.
Securing personal belongings
Using secure bags: Keeping wallets, phones, and other valuables in zipped, secure, and front-facing bags [and pockets] can deter pickpockets.
Concealing valuables: People avoid flashing large amounts of cash or using electronics excessively in public.
Protecting belongings in transit: On public transport, people keep their bags and wallets close to their body, especially in crowded conditions.
AI Links:
Identifying Threats in Public Spaces: A Guide to Situational Awareness https://www.armorous.com/post/identifying-threats-in-public-spaces-a-guide-to-situational-awareness
Situational Awareness and Threat Avoidance in Crowded Chaos: A Complete Guide https://protectwithbear.com/blogs/news/situational-awareness-during-civil-unrest
Staying Safe in Public Places: Practical Tips for Everyday Life https://orangehuntliving.com/staying-safe-in-public-places-practical-tips-for-everyday-life/
Avoiding Unsafe Situations https://globaled.duke.edu/student-experience/avoid-unsafe-situations/
Palo Alto Police Department https://www.paloalto.gov/Departments/Police/Crime-Prevention-Tips/Personal-Safety#