Many untrained people think they can fight due to overconfidence, media influence, and lack of experience. The Dunning-Kruger effect makes them overestimate their abilities, while movies and pop culture simplify fighting, making it seem instinctive. Biological instincts like the fight-or-flight response and cultural pressures to appear tough also play a role. Many confuse athleticism or aggression with skill, underestimating the complexity of trained fighters’ techniques. This illusion often shatters when they face real resistance or encounter trained opponents.

The video “Why do people THINK they can Fight??” by Sensei Seth delves into the psychology behind why many untrained individuals believe they can defend themselves or fight effectively. In the video, Seth interviews people in Central Park, New York City, to explore their thoughts on fighting and self-defense.

Confidence from Past Experiences: Many interviewees cite past experiences in street fights or schoolyard brawls, often during their youth, as the basis for their belief in their fighting abilities. Some say their confidence stems from the adrenaline or anger they feel in confrontational situations.

Overestimating Abilities: There is a common theme where individuals feel confident in their physical abilities but lack actual training. Some respondents admit to never having received formal training in martial arts, yet still believe they could defend themselves.

Physical Fitness and Size: For some, working out or being physically fit gives them a false sense of security in their ability to fight. Even without formal training, they feel that their strength or stamina would give them an advantage in a fight.

The Influence of Media and Popular Culture: Seth touches on how popular media, particularly fighting sports like UFC, may contribute to the overconfidence many people have in their fighting capabilities. Social media clips and exaggerated portrayals of confident yet untrained individuals also play a role in bolstering this mindset.

Contradictions in Self-Perception: While many people assert they could fight in a self-defense situation, their responses reveal contradictions. Some admit that in reality, they might struggle in a real fight, especially if it involved someone who had actual training.

Ultimately, Seth’s exploration highlights the gap between self-perceived fighting ability and the reality of physical combat, especially when formal training is absent. People often overestimate their skills, relying on physical traits or past experiences, without recognizing the importance of structured training and technique in effective fighting.