The Predator/Prey Dynamic

Something potent and primal happens when individuals who are more prone to abusing are around individuals who are more susceptible to abuse. It's not an elevated or dignified aspect of human nature, but it's one we ignore at the peril of the potential abused and abusers.

When I worked at the prison, a classification system was necessary to manage inmates with the least amount of violence and trouble possible. Alphas, those inmates deemed prone to act in a violent or manipulative manner, were housed separately from Sigmas, those inmates most at risk of being abused. The majority of inmates fit a third classification; they were known as Kappas. The Kappas were able to live among Alphas without a higher than average risk of being victimized. They could also live among Sigmas without getting caught up in the bloodlust that comes over a predator when they sense weakness. 

By writing about this dynamic, I don't mean to suggest it would be helpful to classify missionaries. I do think it would be helpful for mission presidents to be aware of that this is a potent dynamic that can tempt and draw in some missionaries. Perhaps those have been abused, witnessed interpersonal violence, or have had to live a dog-eat-dog life in some other way. Perhaps they have a less than a healthy sense of empathy for others. Or less restraint or inhibitions against violence for some reason. I'm sure there are even missionaries who possess a sadistic streak. 

If these missionaries are paired and housed with missionaries who come across as no nonsense and tough enough to handle themselves, the predatory tendency may never manifest itself during their mission. The predisposition toward abuse may remain dormant.