[refdhbgtd]

I remember reading somewhere quite a while back (probably about another art) that genrally, when foreigners first arrive and start training in Japan, the sensei heap on the compliments. What a warm fuzzuy feeling that is. As time moves on, and a committment is established, the sensei take more interest in the students development and the compliments are replaced by criticism (constructive or otherwise). That also comes along with a thorough workout to point out all of the shortcomings that need to be addressed. By the time you're a senior (everything's relative), these actions become minimal as they've mostly been addressed and you can push yourself to the limit without the help of your sensei.

Each person has their own ideas of how to train effectively. How do you pass on your knowledge? Most likely drawing on our own experience. The Japanese teachers would most likely be drawing on that experience. Is it bullying, violence, assualt, child abuse...???? Unless yoyu're on the receiving end and can see the intention of the sensei, it can be difficult to draw an accurate conclusion.

I must admit that with my western way of thinking, I will never truelly understand the Japanese logic (is that and oxymoron?), but who am I to judge.....