Women’s perceptions of how martial arts influences their psychological well-being

Eggleton, Heidi and Skea, Derek 2024. Women’s perceptions of how martial arts influences their psychological well-being. Martial Arts Studies 16 , pp. 8-19. 10.18573/mas.197

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Abstract

Literature shows martial arts (MA) positively influence psychological well-being (Bell, 2008; Fuller, 1988; Moore et al., 2020; Vargas, 2019; Vertonghen & Theeboom, 2010). The aim of this qualitative study is to develop a clearer understanding of how martial arts (MA) influences women’s perceived psychological well-being. Using semi-structured interviews, this study captures the stories and experiences of eleven women who practise MA. Through thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2021), four themes can be distinguished. Firstly, increased self-confidence. Secondly, increased self-acceptance, particularly with regards to women accepting their body image and identity. Thirdly, positive development in relationships with immediate family. Lastly, an increased sense of belonging through mostly gendered and multigenerational friendships. Negative experiences with men within the MA training environment posed a threat. Some women feel indifferent about gender in MA, but many report negative experiences with men posed a threat to the benefits MA has on women’s well-being.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
Publisher:	Cardiff University Press
ISSN:	2057-5696
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	15 January 2025
Date of Acceptance:	9 September 2024
Last Modified:	22 Jan 2025 15:31
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/175297

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