Studia Kinanthropologica

Studia Kinanthropologica 2016, 17(1):7-14

The evaluation of self - defense for people with visually impairment by its participants

M. Bugala, A. Skotáková^*, J. Čihounková, Z. Reguli

Masarykova Universita v Brně, Fakulta Sportovních studií, Katedra gymnastiky a úpolů

Despite pro-inclusive efforts, we are witnessing the fact, that people with disabilities are too often victims of crime. For these reasons, we realize that we need to deal with the risk of attack. Also it is important to improve the level of knowledge of solving conflict situations by people with disabilities. The aim of this paper is evaluation of self-defense courses for persons with visual impairments. By exploration method we investigated the experience of people with visual impairment with risk or violent behavior towards this specific group and their security concerns. Based on detailed survey methodology of self-defense was created for persons with visual impairments. Before and after the intervention program we are using the same questionnaire to find out particular changes in the security concerns of participants. Practical significance of changes in scores for each of the questions were expressed by Cohen s d. We found out positive effects in terms of practical significance, which confirm the effectiveness of the program of self-defense for a group of people with visual impairments. Highlights in particular the improvement in the use of communication strategies and increase confidence in the face of verbal conflict. We have seen a major shift in overcoming own fears, which can significantly affect the quality of life of individuals. Goals of self-defense courses for people with visual impairments have been met. Participants of the course demonstrated increased faith in his own ability to respond, confront and resolve conflict situations.

Keywords: self-defense; persons with visual impairment; safety concerns

Published: March 30, 2016  Show citation