AGGRESSIVE PANHANDLING Meaning and
Definition
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Aggressive panhandling refers to the act of soliciting or begging for money or other resources in a forceful, assertive, or intimidating manner. It involves approaches or behavior by panhandlers that exceed normal or acceptable standards, often causing discomfort, distress, or fear to the individuals targeted.
This phenomenon typically occurs in public spaces, such as sidewalks, parks, or transportation hubs, where panhandlers actively engage with passersby, frequently employing techniques intended to pressure or coerce others into giving money or assistance. Examples of aggressive panhandling behaviors include following or blocking individuals, using threatening or abusive language, invading personal space, or persistently and confrontationally demanding payment.
The purpose of aggressive panhandling is to elicit a response from potential donors through guilt, fear, or annoyance, thereby increasing the likelihood of obtaining financial support or other resources. However, it is important to note that not all attempts to solicit funds in public spaces are aggressive panhandling, as some individuals may simply engage in polite, non-intrusive requests.
Due to concerns for public safety and the negative impact on community members, many cities and jurisdictions have implemented laws and regulations to address and mitigate the issue of aggressive panhandling. These laws often define specific behaviors or locations where aggressive panhandling is prohibited, impose penalties for non-compliance, and provide guidance for law enforcement and citizens on how to respond to aggressive panhandlers while ensuring individual rights and safety are maintained.
Etymology of AGGRESSIVE PANHANDLING
The term "aggressive panhandling" is a compound word that combines two distinct words: "aggressive" and "panhandling".
1. "Aggressive" originates from the Latin word "aggressus", which is the past participle of "aggredi" meaning "to approach, attack, or undertake". The word entered English in the late 16th century and initially referred to actions that involved initiating hostilities or being assertively assertive in pursuit of a goal.
2. "Panhandling" is derived from the noun "panhandle", which originally referred to a long, narrow strip of land resembling the handle of a pan, specifically the handle part of the state of Oklahoma (United States). Later, it came to represent begging or asking for money, possibly due to the resemblance between a beggar's outstretched hand and the shape of a panhandle.
