Intimidation is just another word for bullying, and even adults experience it at home, in the work place, and out in public.  It’s stressful, frightening, uncomfortable, and just downright nasty.  Women are easy targets for so many reasons, but primarily because of their gender.  Being a woman, however, does not mean you have to be excluded, humiliated, controlled, dominated, coerced or taken advantage of.  It’s a personality trait that can prove unpredictable, especially when you find yourself toe-to-toe with the dominating individual (even another woman).

There are Long-Term Effects

Constant intimidation is far from healthy as it can cause anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicide, depression and nightmares.  Even if the perpetrator fails to act on their verbal threats, the damage is already done.  The victim lives in a daily state of fear of when it will happen again.  If the attack has ceased, the stress may still continue.  Cortison and adrenaline increases when the body is forced into a “fight or defense mode,” and as a result, victims of chronic intimidation may perceive a threat whenever they feel stressed.  Over time, this can weaken the immune system and cause various ailments that can include depression, headaches, and stomach and body pain.

What can you do when confronted with someone whose physique may be as intimidating as their mindset?

First and foremost, you need to recognize if the situation is abusive, either verbally or physically.  This kind of power and control is repeatedly used by people, who are naturally abusive.  You can visit the following link at WomensHealth.gov as a helpful resource for getting assistance right away.

Listed below are a few suggestions that may help you deal with an apparent bully.

  • Fear is a disabling emotion that backs you into a corner.  Don’t show it.  Don’t allow it  Owning your power is a good place to start.  Showing confidence and that you are not a person easily intimidated is one way of getting your point across.  You can do that easily by just letting a slow smile grace your lips.  Try humor.  It’s a great diffuser when delivered with assertiveness.  “I may be short, but I’m no pushover so, change your tone.”
  • Just because of the environment and world we live in, regardless of size, women should learn the very basics of self-defense.  Petite women are highly likely to encounter an aggressive individual more than once in their life time.  We all know that knowledge brought Goliath to his knees, not brute strength.  Knowledge is power, and there are many resources available around you where you can attain it like:  your community college, YWCA, local gym and adult education center.  You can also ask your local police department to give demonstrations for free, if you can gather together a small group of committed women looking to learn.
  • Gaining respect is sometimes just as simple as demanding it so, open communication is key.  Don’t be afraid to shift the power back to the abuser by looking them straight in the eye, relay in a calm yet, intense manner, that their actions are inexcusable, not appreciated and will not be tolerated.  Remember, in most instances, people are controlling because you allow them to be.