Hiding in Plain Sight: Deceptive Tactics and the Criminal Victimization Process

Description

This book examines the role of deceptive tactics in the criminal victimization process, showing how various forms of manipulative aggression can help disguise dangerous advances. The author approaches crime victimization as the final stage in a purposeful, predictable, dynamic, and progressively dangerous process involving interactions between the target and the aggressor. As they prepare for the attack, aggressors may attempt to distract, confuse, and reduce target resistance. While these tactics provide aggressors certain advantages, they can be recognized, anticipated, and managed. By presenting a framework to identify behaviors of concern early in the process, Kenny shows how preventative action can be taken. Proactive intervention may cause aggressors to withdraw before they are fully committed to and confident in their ability to be successful. Those who take steps to reduce vulnerabilities, limit risky behaviors, and avoid dangerous situations can help prevent themselves from being victimized. Front Matter ....Pages i-xiii Stronger Than We Think: More Capable Than We Know (James F. Kenny)....Pages 1-13 The Art of Identifying Deception (James F. Kenny)....Pages 15-31 Deception and the Process Toward Criminal Victimization (James F. Kenny)....Pages 33-44 Lurking in the Shadows: Stranger Danger and Target Selection (James F. Kenny)....Pages 45-58 “Getting to Know You”: Confirming Target Suitability (James F. Kenny)....Pages 59-69 Choosing Familiar Targets: The Devils You Wish You Did Not Know (James F. Kenny)....Pages 71-85 Enticing the Target: Tactics That Fabricate Trust and Reduce Suspicion (James F. Kenny)....Pages 87-98 Developing a Smoke Screen: Tactics That Disguise Criminal Advances (James F. Kenny)....Pages 99-110 Preparing for the Attack: Tactics That Establish Control (James F. Kenny)....Pages 111-124 Removing the Blindfold: Recognizing Deceptive and Dangerous Advances (James F. Kenny)....Pages 125-140 Stopping the Process from Beginning: Avoid Becoming a Target (James F. Kenny)....Pages 141-156 Reestablishing the Balance of Power: Responding to Deceptive and Aggressive Tactics (James F. Kenny)....Pages 157-171 Bystander Intervention: Helping Friends Recognize and Address Deceptive Advances (James F. Kenny)....Pages 173-187 Back Matter ....Pages 189-194