by Christopher Bowling

Created on: April 01, 2007   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

Traditional martial arts training is an effective method for treating aggression in adolescents because it provides a structured environment that fosters maturity and self-discipline as well as physical, mental and spiritual growth. For centuries, traditional training in martial arts has been proven to bring about therapeutic benefits, not only physically but also mentally as well. However, it has only been during the last fifty years that the western world has been exposed to these benefits.

Until recently, Eastern philosophies and beliefs have remained somewhat elusive to the Western mind. However, as these philosophies and beliefs have begun to be transmitted to our culture through the gateway of the martial arts, they have been proven effective in treating a great many illnesses and disorders, both physical and mental.

However, for the treatment of adolescent aggression, it must be noted that the modern "sport" styles that emphasize fighting and competition have shown little or no progress toward the goal of adolescent reform. In order for a training program to be effective it must not only focus on the physical aspects, but also the philosophical and meditative as well. It is the combination of these three facets of training, combined with the role of the sifu (instructor), that lead toward progress and reform.

Several factors contribute to aggression and violent behavior in adolescents. Neglect and abuse together with a lack of positive role models in single-parent homes has led adolescents to become violent offenders and gang members who engage in criminal behavior. This coupled with "limited access to mental health coverage has forced greater numbers of adolescents who would benefit from outpatient treatment into the juvenile justice and psychiatric hospital systems" (Twemlow and Sacco 1). Due to the abstract nature of verbal psychotherapy and the difficulty motivating aggressive adolescents to participate, it proves to be ultimately ineffective as a standalone treatment program.

Aggressive or violent adolescents are often removed from school and placed into residential rehabilitation programs, after which attempts are made to reintegrate them back into normal society. There has been little evidence to show that the reforms made while in these programs are maintained after release.

Some may question the validity of martial arts as an alternative due to the fact that psychological studies have been limited and might not show a representative sample

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