Law, David

International Journal of Reality Therapy
Volume 24, Issue 1, pp. 13-18 (2004)

In this article the author, David Law, discusses some of the psychological benefits that result from the study and practice of Taekwondo in children. In his analysis the author identifies distinctions between traditional and modern Taekwondo training programs and the differences in effects that are produced. The author evaluates traditional Taekwondo programs from a Choice Theory perspective, with particular emphasis on Taekwondo's contribution or role in fulfilling the Choice Theory's concept of basic needs as posited by its founder William Glasser. According to Glasser, there are five genetically programmed basic needs that all individuals have: survival, power, belonging, freedom and fun. It is the author's position that traditional Taekwondo programs effectively provide opportunities that aid children in these programs to fulfill these basic needs.

In posing a distinction between modern and traditional Taekwondo programs, the author isolates noted differences in training methods and the behavioral outcomes of the students. Modern Taekwondo programs focus on full-contact sparring and self defense, thus the outcome is a sole emphasis on attaining combative skill resulting in many students exhibiting aggressive and delinquent behavior. In contrast, traditional Taekwondo programs stress ideals of conflict avoidance, self-control, and non-contact sparring (poomse). In addition, traditional programs also integrate philosophical and meditative teachings in to students training, thus resulting in a well-rounded education and mastery of Taekwondo as an art. This increased learning experience results in a reduction in negative behavioral patterns, such as aggression and hostility, and an improvement in the student's self-image.

In the remainder of the article the author evaluates traditional Taekwondo programs from a Choice Theory perspective and how they contribute in fulfilling an individual's basic needs as posited by William Glasser. In addition, the author argues that as the students advance in their studies and training, these needs continue to be fulfilled in increasing measure. Such opportunities bring the student closer to aligning the concept of their Quality World, their perception of a life surrounding them that fulfills their basic needs, with the real world. The result is an overall balanced student who has been positively conditioned both physically and mentally.

The article presents a very convincing argument in presenting the benefits that traditional martial arts training, in this case Taekwondo, can provide to the practitioner. If seeking insight into the health benefits that can result from martial arts training, this article is certainly an excellent resource. The article also aids in correcting the misunderstanding that martial arts training leads to increased aggression. Law presents both an interesting and informative perspective that I found enjoyable to read.

Annotated by: Anthony Kirby (April 2009)

Martial Arts: Kung Fu/Wushu |

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