University of Connecticut said: University Alert Status: UCONN Police Reporting a Suspicious Occurrence and Safety Alert: On 2/7/09 at approximately 6:35 PM a suspicious incident occurred at Hilltop Apartments, in the parking lot between the Beard and French buildings. A male approached a female from the opposite direction and came up within several feet of her personal space (my italics). The female turned around and left the area. The male walked away in the opposite direction (my italics). The male did not say anything or make physical contact with the female.  The intention of the male is unknown.  Description as follows: a white male 6’ 0” with shoulder length brown hair wearing a red or brown cloth jacket and jeans.  Male described as older than college age.  The male had a round face and large build. If you have any information or witnessed the incident please call UConn Police at 486-4800.  As always, you are encouraged to travel in groups at night and in well lit areas.  Please notify police of any suspicious activity to police immediately.

I am all for taking precautions in consideration of the safety of women and men on university campuses. But, um ... aren't we getting just a tad precious when someone walks within a few feet of our 'personal space' (the definition of which varies widely from person to person) and we call that suspicious behavior?

I imagine the woman reported the man because he spooked her. She over-reacted, but might have been provoked. I wonder - did he actually approach her, or did he simply walk the same path in the opposite direction?

There are two ways to think about boundaries, such as the one that defines a "personal space." One thought is that boundaries are to be tested; one should navigate as close to them as possible. Another is that boundaries are limits with respect to which one should steer far clear.

The University, perhaps, was trying to avoid a lawsuit in the event this man proves himself to be an actual threat.

I agree that it's a paranoid reaction, both from the woman, and from the University.

I'm a paranoid woman, and I'll be the first to admit it.  When someone spooks me, I turn around and walk away quickly while getting out my cell phone and calling a friend. 

This, however, does seem a bit much even to me.