Evaluate Who is Most Likely to Escalate the Confrontation

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 21: A protestor is arrested after trying to disrupt the march up Queen Street as part of the Vote With Your Feet March on November 21, 2009 in Auckland, New Zealand. The March for Democracy was being held to protest against the Government's failure to respond to amending the anti-smacking legislation.

The protester is the least likely to escalate. Even though he is pointing, he is pointing to the torso which is less confrontational than pointing towards the face, there is also no muscle tightness in his hand and fingers. There is not the intensity in the eyes that we would expect from someone who is ready to fight. His mouth is relaxed and I could just as easily see him smiling after making his statement.

Now look at the officer-to the left- who is also speaking, tightness in lips; hand grabbing forearm. Notice the female officer in the background, subtle disgust...◦

Evaluate Who is Most Likely to Escalate the Confrontation