actually size does matter, but u gotta be able to maintain it, when i was in county with 99% blacks, they called the me "the big Russian' even though i m not Russian, but what i say mattered, who was "with me" was not bothered...but it strictly depends form state to state...mofo sin Texas haven't seen many Europeans, so they do have some respect, u stay in NYC - it s a different story...but long term - state pen - it s a totally different story...u ll have ti "set' a precedent" at one point if you want to be respected...I personally treated everybody with respect, being a CO, but it was just a role...i grew up among guys like that so I have no trouble showing some respect and never felt scared, being shanked or cut with a blade was the least of my worries...i didnt like any of them douches...it was just part of the job..