Reading the Room: Escalation Warning Signs

Welcome to module 5 lesson 33: "Warning Signs of Escalation - Reading the Room" "Violence rarely

happens out of nowhere. Most of the time, there is a clear ladder of escalation. If you can recognize

the warning signs early, you can change your strategy before the situation becomes

physical. This is called 'Reading the Room.'" "We look for changes in three areas:

Body, Voice, and Behavior. Body Language: Watch for 'pacing,' clenched

fists, or 'target glancing' this is when someone starts looking at your chin,

your neck, or the exits. If they start 'squaring up' (turning their chest directly toward

you) or lowering their center of gravity, their body is preparing for a fight.