1. Skill as Emergence. In contrast to the outdated notion that skill is stored and recalled like a file, the Emergent Method defines skill as: “The emergence of adaptive movement solutions based on the relationship between the individual, the task, and the environment.” This means the individual is not executing a learned move—they are discovering and adapting to real-time variables, just as they would in an actual confrontation.

2. Ecological Dynamics + CLA The method is built upon the integration of: – Ecological Psychology (direct perception) – Dynamic Systems Theory (self-organization) Practically applied through the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA), learners are guided—not instructed—toward discovery through
task-driven, live, and scenario-based training environments.

3. Perception-Driven Learning Instead of teaching “what to do,” we shape the perception of the  learner—honing their ability to detect affordances (opportunities for action) in real-time, and attune to the environment with clarity and speed.

4. The Roughhousing Effect™ This principle reintroduces play, unpredictability, and social pressure as necessary components of combat learning. By roughhousing—as wolves and children do—learners
develop: – Neurological growth – Emotional regulation under contact – Trust and cohesion with teammates – Real-time adaptability to human variability
“We don’t teach moves. We develop movers—who adapt, decide, and act in dynamic environments.”