Since there are a variety of attacks than could be directed toward us, we need to have a variety of defenses that are appropriate to the different intensity of these attacks. In other words, we should never respond with more force than is necessary to adequately defend ourselves. If a student were to defend against a wrist grab in the same manner he would against a knife attack, then you could be facing a lawsuit or criminal prosecution. Use of excessive force in a self-defense situation may be personally gratifying, but would be viewed by law enforcement officials and a jury in a very negative manner. The rules of self-defense are very simple.
Common sense goes a long way in the prevention of attack.
So the first rule of self-defense is avoidance. Common sense dictates that a person should avoid placing him or herself in a situation so that attack is unavoidable or invited. Avoidance also means that when an attack comes, avoid the weapon by moving yourself outside the line of attack. Another rule to remember is that in a self-defense situation, one should take advantage of their surroundings, being careful that you are not cornered or flanked by your opponents. Look around the area.