How Does Parental Pressure Affect Young Athletes?
The atmosphere surrounding children's athletics is no longer what it once was. Competitive youth sports are built around elite athletes more than ever—kids who play one sport all year, have been playing since they were little, and are in many club teams. They are frequently regarded as the best players, and such children often face excessive pressure.
Parents are putting more pressure on today's young athletes to play a specific sport or even a specific position within that sport. Some players are even advised to forego defence in favour of scoring, as getting one’s numbers up could be a guaranteed way of getting noticed. Parents in these situations regard their child's athletic skills as an investment. They hope that if their child concentrates on one sport that they excel at early on, they will be able to master that sport and earn a college scholarship or a dream job.
It's only natural as a parent to want to expose your children to specific activities and steer them in a particular direction. However, there is a difference between encouraging your child to participate in a particular sport and being a "stage parent." The latter is the one who tries to live vicariously through their child by obsessively urging them to pursue a career as a professional athlete. They're usually the ones yelling at the referees, coaches, other players, or even their children.
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Nothing positive ever comes from this, and it only puts the child under undue stress. It's humiliating for them and contributes to their fears because they always imagine the worst when they are around their parents.
It's vital to remember that the goal of youth sports is for kids to have fun, learn key life skills, and be exposed to new experiences. Young athletes learn simple, fundamental abilities at a young age that are taken for granted when their skill level improves.
Remember that great athletic ability isn't the only thing that distinguishes a pro athlete. Passion for the sport is also important, and putting too much pressure on a young athlete is the quickest way to burn them out.
Kids are already under a lot of stress, especially when it comes to minor sports. Allowing young athletes to try new sports, attempt different positions, and master essential skills is critical. After all, keeping things interesting keeps them interested.
FAQs
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How can parents ease the pressure off their kids who are young athletes?
The most important thing parents can do is support and encourage their children's coaches. That should be the case regardless of the game's outcome. Let it go even if the child loses every game but still has a good time.
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How can this pressure be dangerous?
Young athletes are already under a lot of pressure to be consistent. Parental pressure can add to the stress levels and affect an athlete’s performance and overall wellbeing.
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Why are young athletes under too much stress?
Youth athletics brings with it, glory and pressure. The way their skills are honed in the early days paves the way for their secure and successful future. A secure future is what every parent wants for their child, and this puts undue pressure on young athletes.
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