One in three women suffers violence, WHO global study finds

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27. It is a primary line of defense

that empowers the vulnerable.

Not only does self-defense training teach how better to handle a violent encounter, it gives women the psychological strength not to make themselves vulnerable in the first place. Self-defense training has positive effects in many aspects of life, including encountering abuse that does not involve physical attack, but which can be just as devastating.

It also sends a message to girls that society has your back and will support you if you are attacked. Self-defense can completely change a person's outlook and self-esteem. Give more confidence and maturity. I'd favor it for boys also.

--I'm not claiming this is the WHOLE answer to the problem--just that it would go far to helping women to NEVER form a victim mentality. I have other ideas too.