The Psychology of Security

Mankind’s eternal quest has always been to feel safe; safe enough to carry out activities and pastimes that enable man to achieve his fullest potential. This thirst for safety has been the bedrock upon which wars have been fought, won or lost. From the wars fought in medieval times to WW1 AND WW2, nations mobilized men and resources to wage battle, with the int

ention of securing their safety and security and in essence their very existence; especially against external aggression.

The psychology of security has also been the focus of research and study. The findings from these studies reveal the working of mankind’s mindset. The major postulation is that security is both reality and a feeling. The two terms may erroneously be used interchangeably but they are not the same. For  a start, the reality of security is based on mathematical projections and prognosis.  

Probabilities can be set for how secure one’s home is depending on factors such as the rate of crime in one’s vicinity and what security measures are in place, like how the doors and exit/entry points are securely locked. Other parameters can also look at how likely one can get to be mugged on the streets, again depending on the frequency of muggings in the area and what measure the individual takes in ensuring his/her own personal  safety.

On the other hand, the feeling of security transcends data and analytic inquisitions. You could feel that, with your training in the martial arts, you are suited in protecting yourself better, than say the police. Your feeling could push you to believing that the local vigilante group will do a better job securing your home than the regular security forces. Even with an armed weapon, an individual may still feel less secure.

In essence, the reality and feeling of security more often than not, converge and diverge, depending principally on the individual, community or nation and other extraneous factors.

Security is a life-long encapsulation of the need and desire of mankind to  achieve actual and idealized notions of safety. It usually starts from the time a child comes into the world, needing the attention and care of its parents; to the period of passage to the great beyond.  Inclusive are the periods in between these two extremes.

                                                                                                                                 
 Ekene Eziagulu                                                                                                                                   

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