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Carlos Ariel Perez

Oscar Martínez

ENGL 1301

14 November 2023

Sociological Effects of MMA and BJJ Training in Youth

The captivating exploration into the sociological effects of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) in the youth, as presented in the peer-reviewed journal article

“Sociopsychological Effects of MMA and BJJ Training on Youth” by Mickelsson delves into the intricate

dynamics of how engagement in these martial arts disciples shapes the sociopsychological development

of adolescents and young adults. The research aims not only to uncover the impact of the practices but

also to discern whether predispositions play a role in steering individuals toward one discipline over the

other. This essay embarks on a comprehensive analysis of the article, meticulously scrutinizing its

background, research methodologies, results, and the nuanced implications embedded in its findings. The

article initiates its discourse by navigating through the contentious landscape surrounding the suitability

of martial arts, particularly for the younger demographic. It acknowledges the polarized discourse in

existing research, with some studies extolling the virtues of martial arts in enhancing self-regulation and

pro-social behavior, while others raise red flags about heightened aggressions among practitioners. By

weaving in the perspectives of notable scholars such as Lakes and Hoyt and implementing the results of

various longitudinal data collections. The article adeptly captures the multifaceted nature of these debates.

It astutely points out the lacuna in previous research, where the diverse array of martial arts disciplines,

ranging from traditional forms like Aikido to contemporary ones like MMA, were not sufficiently

differentiated. This critical observation sets the stage for an in-depth exploration into the distinct

sociopsychological effects of MMA and BJJ.

The article begins by presenting the divisive nature of discussions surrounding the practice of

martial arts, particularly their suitability for youth. The authors acknowledged that previous research has
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shown mixed results, with some studies suggesting that martial arts can improve self-regulation and pro-

social behavior, while others highlight concerns about increased aggression among martial artists.

According to Lakes and Hoyt, "martial arts promoted self-regulation, pro-social behavior, and decreased

conduct problems in a school-based program" (qtd in. Mickelsson 386). It is essential to recognize the

article's clear articulation of the existing debates and controversies surrounding the sociopsychological

effects of martial arts. The article acknowledges that the mixed results may be due to the lack of

differentiation between various martial arts disciplines. Traditional martial arts like Aikido, Taekwondo,

and Karate are suggested to promote self-discipline and reduce aggressive behavior. On the other hand,

modern competitive martial arts like boxing and Thai boxing might enhance aggression. As Nosanchuk

and MacNeil suggest, "Karatekas have been reported to display less aggressive behavior than boxers” (qtd

in. Mickelsson 387). By including this previously conducted research, the authors demonstrate their

credibility and knowledge surrounding this topic, which furthers the effectiveness of their argument.

The authors hypothesize that BJJ, with its supported focus on empathy and respect, may enhance

socially desirable traits. In contrast, MMA, which is associated with commercialism and masculinity, is

hypothesized to result in increased aggression. As Mickelsson stated, "One might argue that now must

shift our focus to these novel martial arts, which are being extensively practiced, in order to explore who

is attracted to them and how they may shape individuals in sociopsychological ways" (387). The study

employs a mixed-methods approach, including longitudinal data collection, surveys, and psychological

measurements. The participants were recruited from local martial arts academies in Sweden, and rigorous

inclusion criteria were applied. The methodology appears well-structured, but the authors note some

issues, such as data attrition, which may introduce a bias that weakens the effectiveness of the argument.

The measurement tools used to assess aggression, pro-social behavior, self-control, and crime

frequency are well-documented and supported by existing literature. According to Buss and Perry,

"Aggression was measured with the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ) consisting of 29 items

with four subscales" (qtd in. Mickelsson 388). The statistical analysis is thorough and effectively tests the

study's hypotheses. The results are presented clearly and concisely, with a focus on key findings,
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including the contrasting effects of MMA and BJJ on aggression and the sociopsychological development

of participants. The article's findings reveal that while both MMA and BJJ practitioners displayed

improved self-control and pro-social behavior, MMA practitioners exhibited increased aggression, while

BJJ practitioners experienced a decrease in aggression. These results align with the study's hypotheses

and highlight the importance of philosophical foundations associated with martial arts in influencing

sociopsychological outcomes. Additionally, the study suggests that individuals who self-select into MMA

training may have higher pre-existing aggression levels, indicating that certain traits may influence their

choice of sport. The Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire gave concise information and gave the

audience a well-structured source of findings.

The study's results have several implications. They suggest that BJJ, with its philosophy of

respect and empathy, may offer a more conducive environment for fostering socially desirable traits

among young practitioners. According to Massey et al., "MMA training has been shown to increase

internal control" (qtd in. Mickelsson 387). On the other hand, MMA, which is portrayed as commercial

and sensation-seeking, may facilitate aggression, which is particularly relevant to success within the

sport. This duality of effects within MMA practitioners underscores the need for further research,

specifically controlling for external factors.

"Sociopsychological Effects of MMA and BJJ Training on Youth" is a valuable contribution to

the literature on martial arts and their sociopsychological implications. The article effectively outlines the

ongoing debates in the field, provides a clear hypothesis, employs robust methodology, and presents

results that support the study's claims. The contrasting effects of MMA and BJJ on aggression and

sociopsychological development emphasize the importance of the philosophical foundations associated

with these martial arts. The study's implications for interventions targeting youth-at-risk and its insights

into how individuals self-select into these sports add depth to the research. However, it is crucial to

recognize the study's limitations, such as data attrition, and the need to further research to validate these

findings and address potential variables.

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Works Cited

Demorest, R. A., and C. Koutures. “Youth Participation and Injury Risk in Martial Arts.”

PEDIATRICS, vol. 138, no. 6, 28 Nov. 2016, pp. e20163022–e20163022,

https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2016-3022.

EBSCO. “EBSCOhost Research Platform | EBSCO.” EBSCO Information Services, Inc. |

Www.ebsco.com, 2021, www.ebsco.com/products/ebscohost-research-platform.

Morin, Amy. “Encouraging Your Teen to Take Martial Arts Classes.” Verywell Family, 15 Feb.

2022, www.verywellfamily.com/risks-and-benefits-of-martial-arts-for-teens-4118105.