Alone in the forest with a man or bear is an easy choice for women; Here’s why
A recent viral trend on TikTok has sparked confusion among men. Would you rather be alone in the forest with a man or a bear? The overwhelming response from women paints an alarming picture – many, if not all, feel safer facing a bear than a man.
@callmebkbk Replying to @slime_boyo
Predictable vs. Unpredictable Threat
- Bears are powerful predators, but their behavior often follows instincts and territoriality. Encounters can be avoided with proper precautions.
- Human behavior, on the other hand, is far less clear-cut. Men capable of violence can be calculating and manipulative, leaving victims with prolonged fear and trauma.

Courtesy of NSVRC
Statistics confirm this grim reality. A 2020 report by the National Sexual Assault Hotline found that nearly 1 in 5 women in the United States alone have experienced attempted or completed assault in their lifetime. It’s crucial to emphasize that not all men pose a threat. However, the trend highlights the undeniable fear many women carry, especially when alone or vulnerable. This fear stems from societal issues like harassment, assault, and a culture that often fails to prioritize women’s safety.
Beyond Women
Interestingly, the trend isn’t limited to women. Many fathers participating in the trend chose a bear encounter for their daughters over a strange man. This emphasizes the broader societal concern about women’s safety, particularly when alone with a man.
“It (the bear) might not do anything if she screams loud enough.”
Women on the platform have also shared their fear of not being believed if they report harassment or assault. They point out bystanders who might record the situation instead of helping, or worse, dismiss their claims entirely. Conversely, an encounter with a bear is likely to be met with immediate action and assistance.
@comeintothewat3r maybe men will listen, now that its coming out of another mans mouth 🖤 #men #women #womenoftiktok #bear #feminist #feminism #allmen
JC Paredes
Since March 2021, I've worn two hats at Spiel Times: a writer and a Managing Editor. In my writing role, I've earned recognition from Wikipedia and Nev Schulman (Catfish TV Show host) for my insightful analysis and engaging narrative style. I'm passionate about all things gaming, with a keen eye for detail and a knack for uncovering hidden secrets within games. My gaming journey began at a young age, captivated by titles like Resident Evil and Tomb Raider. Today, I enjoy exploring open-world RPGs and MMORPGs, consumed by their lore and crafting theories about their narratives. I'm also drawn to the suspenseful atmosphere of horror games and the intricate narratives of crime-themed titles, bringing a unique perspective to my writing. Beyond gaming, I have a fascination with anything unexplained and chilling, a passion that often spills over into my exploration of horror games. When I'm not engrossed in a virtual world, you can find me curled up and spending time with my adorable doggy sidekick, Teemo. As Managing Editor, I'm committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for our writing team. I communicate openly with my team members, addressing any content-related issues and providing guidance to help them excel.
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