Characteristics of a Certified Empowerment Self-Defense Instructor
Ability to effectively model and teach physical self-defense techniques
Training/experience in the following areas:
assertiveness/confrontation skills
de-escalation training
conflict resolution/crisis management training
defense against grab attacks
defense against punching and kicking attacks
defense against armed attacks
defense against multiple attackers
defense from the ground
50 hours experience teaching or co-teaching self defense
Knowledgeable about the issues survivors of violence face; understanding the process of healing from violent victimization
Familiarity with data regarding violent victimization
Ability to present a range of options including precautions, verbal, psychological, and physical tactics
Ability to create physically and emotionally safe learning environments
Ability to organize and plan classes effectively
Able to adapt and modify curriculum to meet the needs of students
Perceptive and skilled communication skills, treats each student with respect and sensitivity and encouragement
Awareness and support of other local resources for women and children victimized by threat of violence
High ethical standards and ability to conduct oneself at all times in a manner that acknowledges and honors the special bond between teacher and student, and in no way exploits this relationship
Be a current female member in good standing of the National Women's Martial Arts Federation for at least one year
Attend at least one pre-Special Training Self-Defense Instructors' Conference AND complete the Self-Defense Empowerment Model Course given during Special Training
Be in agreement with the philosophical assumptions developed by the NCASA Self-Defense AD-HOC Committee regarding the teaching of self defense presented:
Women do not ask for, cause, invite, or deserve to be assaulted. Women and men sometimes exercise poor judgment about safety behavior, but that does not make them responsible for the attack. Attackers are responsible for their attacks and their use of violence to overpower, control and abuse another human being.
Whatever a woman's decision in a given self-defense situation, whatever action she does or does not take, she is not at fault. A woman's decision to survive the best way she can must be respected. Self defense classes should not be used as judgment against a victim/survivor.
Good self defense programs do not "tell" an individual what she "should" or "should not" do. A program should offer options, techniques, and a way of analyzing situations. A program may point out what USUALLY works best in MOST situations, but each situation is unique and the final decision rests with the person actually confronted by the situation.
Empowerment is the goal of a good self defense program. The individual's right to make decisions about her participation must be respected. Pressure should not be brought to bear in any way to get a woman to participate in an activity if she is hesitant or unwilling.