title: The group dynamics of women's self-defense training.
abstract: The current study examines the role of group interaction in a women's self-defense class. Study methods included individual interviews with women who had completed a college-based women-only self-defense course as well as supplemental observation of group behavior during a mock "attack" simulation class. The unique relationship that develops among women's self-defense classmates seems to improve overall learning and performance due to the group collaboration and vicarious experiences. Results demonstrated that women's self-defense courses offer participants a beneficial and supportive group atmosphere.
authors.affiliation: University of Illinois, Springfield, USA.
authors.forename: Leanne R
authors.initials: LR
authors.lastname: Brecklin
authors.forename: Rena K
authors.initials: RK
authors.lastname: Middendorf
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D005260:Female; D006126:Group Processes; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008875:Middle Aged; D010806:Physical Education and Training; D011902:Rape / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012449:Safety; D012944:Social Support; D014495:Universities; D014754:Violence / Q000517:prevention & control*; D014930:Women; D016387:Women's Health; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: collaboration; group dynamics; self-defense class