Distractions and Softeners in Self-Defense

In self-defense situations, many people emphasize the use of Distractions and/or Softeners. I feel that they certainly have a place, but should not be employed needlessly....

"Distractions" are anything that take the attacker's attention off what they are doing, even if only for an instant, so that you can better counteract what they are doing. Aside from the "Hey, what's that behind you?" misdirection of movies and kids, they are usually used against grabs. A kick in the shins, a clap in the face, a pinch to the inner thigh, or even a sudden Kiai up close can affect their attention so that the actual grab defense/escape can be done more easily- even if the distraction is not particularly debilitating. 

"Softeners" are strikes designed to weaken the grip or damage the attacker. If grabbed from behind in a bear hug too strong to get out of, perhaps you can twist enough to fire some elbows, rake the shins with your shoes, stomp on the foot or otherwise cause damage while still being held. If you cause enough damage, the hold will loosen even if you do not perform a proper "escape."  If some grabs your lapels from the front, you could use your hands and legs to "soften" them with a simple spear to the throat, or repeated blows to make them let go.

Ideally, you should not put yourself in a situation where you are being attacked or grabbed, and you should not let someone lock in a strong grab on you. If I am being grabbed, I try to react BEFORE I need to think about distractions or softeners, instead of spending time thinking about what softener might be helpful.

So for me, distractions and softeners are helpful backups for when the thing I want to do isn't working so easily.  But if the thing I want to do is available, I usually just do that without adding extra things (even if potentially helpful) into the mix.

Keep self-defense simple, if you can't keep it unnecessary: Do what you need to do, and no more and no less. Use what you have practiced and are most comfortable, and no need for fancy or creative efforts.

-Mark Swingle, KF USA