Asking for help Quote by de Becker, Gavin
““Some parents have taught their small children, “Go to the manager,” but this poses the same problem of identification as with the policeman: That small name tag is several feet above the child’s eye-line. I don’t believe in teaching inflexible rules because it’s not possible to know they’ll apply in all situations. There is one, however, that reliably enhances safety: Teach children that if they are ever lost, Go to a Woman. Why? First, if your child selects a woman, it’s highly unlikely that the woman will be a sexual predator. Next, as Jan’s story illustrates, a woman approached by a lost child asking for help is likely to stop whatever she is doing, commit to that child, and not rest until the child is safe. A man approached by a small child might say, “Head over there to the manager’s desk,” whereas a woman will get involved and stay involved.””
About This Quote
Source Book: “Protecting the Gifted Child” by Gavin de Becker, 1995
Children should be taught to seek help from women when lost because women are statistically more likely to assist and less likely to be predators.
In simple terms: Teach kids to go to a woman when lost.
Key Takeaway
Always direct lost children to a woman for help.
Themes
safety
child protection
gender dynamics
Mood
cautious
protective
Type
advice
practical
When to use this quote
- lost child scenarios
- public spaces
- emergency situations
Key Concepts
risk assessment
social behavior
protective strategies
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure women's safety while teaching this rule?
- What alternatives exist if no woman is nearby?
A Different Perspective
May not apply in cultures where women are less safe or unavailable.
