Women and children first? Experts say that in most crises, it’s more like everyone for themselves

Yes, the “Women and Children First” protocol is largely a myth. Studies and real-world scenarios suggest that in crises, people often prioritize self-preservation regardless of gender or age. The notion, while popularized by historical events and Hollywood, does not accurately reflect human behavior in emergencies.

Societal and cultural norms significantly influence crisis response. Factors like leadership, time constraints, and the specific situation dictate the behavior of individuals in a crisis. The concept of who is most vulnerable may vary, leading to different rescue priorities.

A study on 18 maritime disasters over three centuries revealed that the Titanic was an exception in prioritizing women and children. Generally, in most shipwrecks, chaos prevails, and captains and crew have a higher survival rate. Women often have a survival disadvantage compared to men.

In hostage situations, the dynamics change as external actors, such as political entities or militant groups, control the scenario. Decisions about who to release first can be influenced by various factors, including politics, international pressure, and the specific demands of the captors.

In the Israel-Hamas prisoners-for-hostages deal, negotiators agreed to prioritize the release of mothers and children, reflecting a concern for keeping families together. However, this approach left behind many male hostages, sparking debate and criticism over the decision-making process.