Help Students Cope

Many people in today's society have feelings of failure and disaffection. Taekwondo may help these students cope their feelings of discouragement and alienation. 

Borba (1992) mentions elements necessary to break the cycle of discouragement and give students a sense of achievement and self-worth. Borba makes the point that in every case where a change has been effected, there were significant adult mentors who recognized a special talent and cultivated and strengthened that talent. This is where Taekwondo instructors and other black belts can make a difference in the lives of students

The first of the elements concerns the feeling of security. New Taekwondo students not only need to feel safe from injury, but also safe from negative instruction. Instructors should continuously compliment students and avoid put downs and comparisons to others. Students need to know it is okay to make mistakes and that they will not be singled out (especially when first beginning) as examples.