Tell yourself you’re going to be okay. Continually remind yourself of your expected release time. Think about how this will be a great story to tell to kids, grand kids, and friends. [1] X Research source
If you don’t comply, they’ll use physical force, and you may get hurt. It’s not worth taking a stand on something trivial or out of principle. The only time you should not comply is when your rights are being directly violated, as in the case of rape or abuse. If you don’t comply with a lawful order or request, you might face additional charges.
Memorize a reliable person’s home number for these types of situations. Use the collect call system against itself. Oftentimes, you’ve got a couple seconds to record your name so it can be played back for the person you’re calling. Try blurting out “John jail Nashville help me” or something similar so the person will know what to do without talking to you. You are often allowed to make more than one call. [3] X Research source
Try your best to appear calm, collected, and cool. Don’t come across as a someone who is overly tough, as other inmates will try to challenge you. Make sure to control your emotions. While you might be a nervous wreck, crying or shaking typically won’t help you. Such behavior will just mark you as someone that others might want to mess with. [5] X Research source [6] X Research source
If you’re trying to rest, sit on the floor with your back to the wall, preferably in a corner. Don’t lie down, as you’ll just be making yourself vulnerable. Stay mentally active by thinking about other problems you need to solve, such as fixing your transmission or bathing your dog. [7] X Research source
As a rule, try not to be noticed. Try as hard as possible not to be rude in any way. Answer questions with short responses that don’t reveal any personal information about yourself. Don’t be too polite, as over politeness might be construed as weakness, too. [8] X Research source
Never ask for a seat. This could provoke a fight from someone looking for a fight. Don’t ask permission. If there is plenty of room available on a bench, and you won’t be getting into anyone’s personal space, take a seat. If not, don’t ask anyone if you’re allowed to sit there. Asking permission will signal fear or subservience to trouble makers. If someone offers to do something for you, politely decline. But don’t say “no thank you. ” Try something like “I’m okay” or “That’s cool. ”[9] X Research source
If someone asks you what you did, be honest. Don’t give anyone any more information than you need to. Don’t verbally judge anyone else’s crime. [11] X Research source
