I was brought up similarly and do know how to defend myself in a pinch but... I'd only resort to it if I thought the situation was going to inevitably going to end in violence, which usually only involved intoxication, most people trying to steal something don't want any trouble either - it's only those guys who went out looking for a fight or who are intoxicated to the point of not being able to let things go that I'd consider in that category where I am legitimately fearing for my life and have no alternatives.

It's just like burglars, if you come home and your door is broken and you hear sounds inside then just move a safe distance away and call the cops, there's no need to charge in rambo style.