For a theory of body combat: towards a psychology of martial arts and combat sports

Abstract

Through the identification and understanding of psychological phenomena that act in the combative experience of practitioners, the present project aims to articulate a theory of corporal combat and a Psychology of Martial Arts and Combat Sports. According to the hypothesis to be examined, a psychological perspective of the Martial Arts and Combat Sports would necessarily pass through the understanding of the personal development aimed at them. In the context of modern civil society, it is presumed that this personal development, closely associated with the virtues of martial arts, gradually distances the practitioner from leading the initiative of uncontrolled, aggressive and violent behavior, except in situations of self-defense whereby, makes use of violence in an instrumental way. This proximity between struggle and violence, in fact, makes the knowledge about the process of personal education and training in the practice of Martial Arts and Combat Sports a particularly relevant subject for the educational and intervention of Physical Education professionals and Psychology of Sport. The initiative of this research is aligned with the principles of the ICM, International Center of Martial Arts for Youth Development and Engagement, UNESCO office whose prerogatives impact public policies worldwide. (AU)