I have been instructing for 15 years, and lately I have been teaching a class about behavioral indicators for violence loosely based off of the ATF Mental Prep for Armed Conflict, and Gavin DeBecker’s book “Gift of Fear.” What I have found is that many FTOs in my area are forgetting to focus on following behavior cues. After seeing some of the dash cam videos, it seems others may be having the same issues.
We always say, “watch the hands” but what about “Watch the BEHAVIOR.” A majority of violent incidents evolve from people under the influence of drugs/alcohol. Mostly they are incapable of hiding their anger or planning. We should make use of this and teach a little about “Watch the Behavior.” Review encounters we have had on our videos, even when they don’t result in violence. You may be surprised at what you notice the second time through!