Has the media driven our kids to PARANOIA ?

As far as his training in the Martial arts is concerned I can tell you that he's tossed me around more than once so, It isn't about all flash and show.It's about confidence which I believe has been the responsibility of myself and his mom. Being an only child I think we've been way over protective!

Well now that you've isolated one of the roots of the problem perhaps you can begin working on it. I personally feel kids shouldn't be completely "protected" by their parents. When their finally alone their shield is suddenly removed & their left completely unprepared and vulnerable. I believe parents should be more "Damage control". They'll then have the knowledge & experience to be ready when the need arises. Now back to the marital arts issue. Have you actually sat in & watched what they do on a regular basis? Do they teach real life combat skills & situations? Many schools teach techniques that are great for show or in the ring but useless on the street. You could teach a 6 yr old how to throw someone, but would they know when, where & how to use it properly? Thats the part that commonly gets left off even though its the part thats most necessary & what will instill the most confidence.