Making the Connection: Youth Sports & Athletic Identity
Dec 20, 2023
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Guests Dr. Tamerah Hunt and Kylie Roberts discuss the impact of athletic identity on young athletes, the development of a win-it-all-cost mindset, challenges athletes face when transitioning out of sports, the importance of early intervention in youth sports, and the benefits of having a multi-dimensional identity.
High athletic identity can have both positive and negative effects on youth athletes, including improved performance but also neglect of injuries and burnout.
Transitions in youth sports, such as moving to a new team or leaving the sport, can be challenging, and support from parents, coaches, and administrators is essential for successful navigation and maintaining mental well-being.
Deep dives
Effects of Athletic Identity on Youth and Adolescent Athletes
Athletic identity refers to the degree to which an individual identifies with their athlete role. While high athletic identity can have positive effects like improved athletic performance, increased team values, and social interactions, it can also have negative consequences. Athletes with high athletic identity often prioritize athletics over academics, neglect injuries, and experience burnout. External and internal pressures contribute to the development of negative athletic identity, but support from parents, coaches, and stakeholders can help address these challenges.
Transitions and the Importance of Supporting Athletes
Transitions in youth sports involve changes such as moving to a new team or transitioning out of sports altogether. These transitions, whether voluntary or involuntary, can be challenging for athletes. It is essential for parents, coaches, and administrators to provide support during these periods. Recognizing behavioral changes and offering opportunities for athletes to fill the void created by the loss of their athletic identity is crucial. Engaging in other activities, seeking counseling, and providing mentorship opportunities can help athletes navigate these transitions successfully.
Encouraging Multi-Dimensional Identities and Having Fun
Parents and stakeholders should encourage athletes to develop multi-dimensional identities beyond their athletic roles. Encouraging athletes to try new things and pursue other interests helps them develop into well-rounded individuals. Having multiple identities provides a buffer against the negative effects of high athletic identity and helps athletes cope with transitions. Furthermore, emphasizing the importance of fun in sports helps athletes maintain a positive outlook and enjoy their athletic journey.
With us today is Tamerah Hunt, Ph.D., FACSM, who is a Certified Athletic Trainer with expertise in mental health, concussion and youth sports. She obtained her PhD from the University of Georgia and currently works as the Program Coordinator for the MS in Kinesiology program with a concentration in Athletic Training at Georgia Southern University. Joining Dr. Hunt is Ms. Kylie Roberts, who is a Graduate Assistant Athletic Trainer at Georgia Southern University with experience in mental health, mental health help seeking and cultural consideration in low socioeconomic status populations. We have an outstanding show for you today shining a spotlight on a very important topic of the effect of athletic identity in youth and adolescent athletes.