Self defense article
Why self defense should be taught in high schools
Carys Cheshire '24
Editor in Chief of Content
It is a sad truth that, as young women, we are at higher risk than men of being a victim of targeted attacks and assault. Because of this serious reality, I believe that self-defense should be taught at not just Louisville, but all high schools. Even with just a one-time class, many teenagers could use what they learn from self-defense to get out of a violent situation.
A common misconception about self defense is that teaching it promotes violence, but realistically, it serves to do the opposite. Self-defense is exactly what it sounds like–a way to defend yourself in order to escape a dangerous situation. Learning self-defense could save someone's life, so I don’t think whether or not it should be taught to students is even debatable, especially at-an all girls school.
Sienna Camoroda '25 and Falon Rushton '24 acting out a self-defence lesson
Self-defense classes also don’t just focus on the physical aspect, but on how to avoid dangerous situations or get out of them before anything physical occurs altogether. Most often, the course prioritizes avoiding circumstances where physical defense is necessary and teaches students how to be more aware of their surroundings.
It is vital that young people know how to protect themselves and act fast in situations where they could be hurt. Even just being taught how to recognize a dangerous situation is a life-saving tactic that many people unfortunately lack.
“70% of adolescents are not aware of the techniques to use in self-defense,” according to Gitnux Market Data.
These statistics demonstrate that the majority of teenagers do not know how to handle situations where self-defense is necessary and potentially life-saving. In my opinion, the best way to solve this issue is to start making self-defense a mandatory class. At Louisville, it could even just be a wellness Wednesday workshop or after school on a 1:25 day, where trained professionals come in and teach the basics of self-defense.
That way, students have a better chance of preventing injury or fatality, if ever attacked or assaulted. Additionally, by learning self-defense at a younger age, students can carry the techniques they’ve learned through the rest of their lives if ever face to face with danger.
“Approximately 65% of women in the U.S. reported enrolling in a self-defense class” in 2023, says Gitnux Market Data.
If such a large number of women take self-defense classes on their own time, then obviously it is something they feel will benefit them. The classes mostly serve to increase one’s feelings of security by knowing they have received lessons on defense and have a better understanding of handling unsafe circumstances.
Personally, as someone who has not received any self-defense training, it is definitely something that I want to learn, but have not had the opportunity to. If the class was offered as a part of my school education, I know without a doubt that I would take the class and remember what I’ve learned throughout my future.
Knowing how to protect oneself is an incredibly valuable skill. Attackers generally target those who look vulnerable, so instilling a confidence in our ability to protect ourselves may prevent an attack from happening in the first place. So, why not teach self-defense in school so that everyone can experience that sense of security, but not have to go out of their way to receive those lessons?