What teens want to know about staying safe

In a world where youth crime rates are at an all time high within the decade, how prepared are our children to protect themselves if things take a turn for the worse?

To ensure we address all needs of teenagers, we conducted a qualitative research program with teenagers aged 14–18 in Melbourne suburbs about their:

• awareness of self-defence

• thoughts on the importance of self-defence 

• and related experiences.

The results were similar to what we see in the teenerages who undergo our programs - we uncovered a strong, shared belief that self-defence education is essential.

“You would much rather have the skills and abilities, even if you never need to use them, rather than get faced with a situation where you might need them, but not have them.” Teenager participant

What teens are telling us

Every teenager interviewed supported the need for self-defence to be taught. This was especially the case as half of the participants had either personally experienced, or knew someone who had been in a risky situation where self-defence skills could have made a positive difference.

When teens were asked what self-defence meant to them, a recurring theme was confidence. Having confidence around:

• train stations

• when attending parties where alcohol was present

• navigating unfamiliar streets

• walking alone at night

• and most importantly, confidence to make quick decisions. 

A key missing piece we heard in this feedback, and by teens who undertake our Safety Stride program, is understanding how to react when confronted. The education wanted, was not primarily about how to throw a punch. Education was especially important to understand opportunities to control the situation; as teens are eager to know:

• when to run

• when to fight back, 

• when to hand over belongings,

• ultimately, how to prevent the situation from escalating.

  
  

These are not instincts we’re born with; they are skills that need to be taught.

Many teenagers feel secure, surrounded by their school and family. However, as some of our participants noted, it often takes a “close call” to truly appreciate the need for these skills.

How can we make a difference?

If you're a parent, educator or student leader, ask your school - are we doing enough to help students walk through the world with confidence? If not, get in touch with Dean to learn about Safety Stride: rpf@hotmail.com.au