In a hostage situation, what should hostages do to improve their chances of survival?

The most effective course of action for hostages in a hostage situation is to seek to establish rapport with captors. This can create a more favorable environment and potentially lead to better treatment, as well as increased chances of survival. Building a connection with captors can help humanize the hostages in the eyes of the captors, making them see hostages as individuals rather than just targets. Establishing rapport may also encourage captors to avoid violence and reconsider their motivations for the hostage-taking in the first place.

Remaining alert for signs of being rescued can result in unnecessary anxiety and may distract hostages from the more immediate need of managing their relationship with the captors. Engaging in conversations with media personnel puts hostages at risk, compromising their safety and likely making their captors feel threatened or cornered. Demanding to speak to authorities can also escalate tensions and provoke a negative reaction from captors, further endangering the hostages. Therefore, seeking rapport with captors is the most strategic and potentially life-saving approach.