Via Budo: Using the warrior's mind against crime

Abstract: Traditional martial arts are thought to be a path towards virtue through the practice of self-control. In this study, a survey was used to examine the associations between the practice of traditional martial arts, higher levels of self-control and lower levels of aggression, which were already suggested from previous research. The hypothesis was based both on self-control and social bonds theories as well as theories based on morality. The philosophical concept of t.m.a, which is thought to encourage individuals to practise discipline in the pursuit of virtue, was assumed to have contributed to the survey's results. Further research should examine traditional martial arts' potential in both crime (and recidivism) prevention as well as rehabilitation.