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Martial arts and psychological health
1Butler Clinic, Langdon Hospital, Dawlish, Devon, UK.
The British Journal of Medical Psychology
|December 1, 1988
Summary
Martial arts training offers significant psychological benefits, with potential applications in modern psychotherapy. Research highlights positive effects on personality and behavior, suggesting promising therapeutic uses.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sports Science
- Therapeutic Practices
Background:
- The public perception of martial arts often overlooks their profound psychological dimensions.
- Existing empirical research on martial arts psychology is limited in scope and methodological rigor.
- There is a need to explore the psychological legacy of martial arts for contemporary applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the psychological legacy of martial arts and its relevance to modern psychotherapy.
- To review existing empirical findings on the psychological effects of martial arts training.
- To explore potential clinical and psychotherapeutic applications of martial arts principles.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of empirical studies on martial arts and psychology.
- Analysis of psychological facets of specific martial arts, exemplified by Aikido.
- Consideration of martial arts principles for systemic or adjunctive therapeutic use.
Main Results:
- Findings generally indicate positive psychological effects associated with martial arts training.
- Personality, outlook, and behavior of martial artists show beneficial psychological outcomes.
- Clinical and psychotherapeutic applications are in early, yet promising, stages of exploration.
Conclusions:
- Martial arts possess a rich psychological legacy with parallels to contemporary psychotherapeutic concepts.
- Further sophisticated research is needed to fully understand and utilize these psychological benefits.
- Martial arts principles show potential as valuable adjunctive or systemic therapies.