I didn't see a thread of this type in my search (I'm learning, KickChick.), sooo.... What books or article one the topic of self defense, esp. as relates to women? The best book that I've seen is "The Gift of Fear" by Gavin deBecker. ClumsyFoot's unauthorized cover notes: A premise of the book is that as humans we're hardwired to experience fear. Even though we might not be able to always articulate why we experience fear, the sensation is there for a reason... therefore we need to listen to it and act accordingly. deBecker notes we are culturally trained to ignore fear, especially women who experience more pressure to "be nice". One example he shares is a woman who is in an isolated situation, about to enter an elevator. The doors open, and something about the man standing there makes her uneasy. People, especially women according to deBecker, are trained to think "I don't want to be rude or impolite, so I'll get on the elevator". deBecker asks what creature other than humans would get in a steel, soundproof, escape proof box with another creature that is causing fear? deBecker basically says listening to fear (which is a gift provided to humans to help keep us safe) and keeping ourselves safe is first priority. Whether we appear rude is of no consequence. Interested to see other recommendations.
http://www.martialartsplanet.com/forums/showthread.php?t=24406 http://www.martialartsplanet.com/forums/showthread.php?t=11110 Just a couple of threads - however, other threads relating to books to read all seem to mention the one you have already, seems an extraordinarily comprehensive book by all accounts - methinks I shall buy it meself now - seeing as so many people have gone on about it!
Kickchick recommended this to me only a few weeks ago - an excellent thesis that you might find useful also: http://www.kicks4women.com/thesis.shtml
Thanks for the thread links. I'm particularly interested in the topic for my family's sake, and it looks like I have a lot of reading to do. -CF
