Most of self defence has nothing to do with hand to hand combat, or any comabt at all. That much is true. However, the part of it that does deal with actual confrontations is simply not adressed by all of the scenario training and model muggings they advocate. Being able to fight requires a certain psychological characteristic, call it "toughness" that is simply not achieved by this type of training. Some people have it naturally, they are more or less born fighters. Others, like me, are softies, and no ammount of model mugging or low-contac sparring will ever get them to the point, where they will be able to stand up for themselves when push comes to shove. The only way you can become tough is formal or informal competition, or actual fighting experience. You have to go up against an opponent that is trying to actually take your head off, and not just simulate a mugger. This sort of fighting is a whole different kind of animal from friendly sparring. The agression, adrenalin, and fear for your safety change things a hell of a lot more than most people realize. This is why most of the reality self defence types will fold under real pressure, while most sports fighters will not.