Which of the following is NOT a principle of Self-Defense?

• A. Prevention
• B. Maintain proper distance to allow adequate reaction time
• C. If attacked, move out of the line of force rather than try to stop the force
• D. Use excessive force when necessary

Answer: (D)

Self-defense in training centers on preventing harm, keeping space to react, and using only the amount of force that’s necessary and proportional to the threat. Prevention helps you avoid conflict in the first place. Maintaining proper distance gives you the reaction time to assess, disengage, or retreat if possible. If attacked, moving out of the line of force rather than trying to stop the force head-on is about creating space and angles to reduce impact and regain control. Using excessive force when necessary is not a principle because it goes beyond what is needed to stop the threat and violates proportionality and legality. The aim is to stop the danger with the least amount of force required.