Defense Date

5-3-2018

Graduation Date

Summer 8-11-2018

Availability

Immediate Access

Submission Type

dissertation

Degree Name

PhD

Department

Counseling, Psychology, & Special Education

School

School of Education

Committee Chair

William Casile

Committee Member

David Delmonico

Committee Member

Yih-Hsing Liu

Keywords

wellness, Karate, martial arts, wellbeing, mind, body, psychology, counseling

Abstract

The promotion of wellness is an integral part of the counseling field and is considered to be a central focus to the counseling process (Barden, Conley, & Young, 2015; Myers, 1992). The counseling profession adopted the concept of wellness because it harmonizes with many of the founding principles of the ACA and is seen as a process of questing toward optimal health and well-being in body, mind, and spirit (Barden, Conley, & Young, 2015; Myers, 1992; Myers, Sweeney, & Witmer, 2000). Additionally, ACA Code of Ethics (2014) state that counselors “engage in self-care activities to maintain and promote their own emotional, physical, and mental well-being to best meet their professional responsibilities” (Section C). As such, it becomes essential that counselors continue to examine efficacious methods and disciplines that support a wellness-oriented approach.

This study examines karate through Hettler’s Six Dimension of Wellness model (National Wellness Institute, 2016), in an effort to provide findings that support existing literature about the positive impact of karate practice and how it can be used as a psychotherapeutic tool for counselors and other mental health professionals. The findings of this study suggest that karate does not improve wellness as defined by the Six Dimensions of Wellness model. Additional research initiatives and empirical studies on karate and personal wellness are needed to develop a comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon or additional research. This study discusses the implication for practice and provides specific insights on the findings and provides recommendations for future research.

Language

English

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