Will a scented necklace protect against assault?

An upright and determined posture helps deter criminals from attacking. Based on this, Dutch designers created a perfumed necklace for women that supports a confident posture. Forget pepper spray and whistles. Want to protect yourself from suspicious company on the streets? A fun, oddly twisted necklace will help. This jewelry releases aromas directly into your face, reminding you to stand tall and walk with more confidence. Does this actually reduce the risk of being attacked? "PosturAroma," as this necklace is called, was designed by a team of students from the University of Amsterdam. It was a response to a challenge the university presented them with: to develop a method that would improve women's safety in public places. How does this invention work? An accelerometer embedded near the necklace's clasp detects movement and recognizes the wearer's neck angle. If the wearer's posture becomes too hunched, the chain releases a scent, such as lemongrass, strawberry, or tangerine peel. These scents are associated with a sense of security. The necklace's design is based on the premise that criminals target women who are hunched over with downcast eyes (suggesting inattention and vulnerability). Psychologists call this common pattern in criminal assaults the " downcast demeanor ." The idea of ​​a quirky necklace (it's large and has an unspecified shape) makes sense. However, the chain's design leaves much to be desired. The very avant-garde jewelry may not appeal to women. The project is still in the prototype phase, so there's hope that its form will evolve.