Competitive sports for young boys

Controversial issues

Abstract

This article considers the problem of competitive sports for young boys in the light of past policy statements, current practices, and recent research findings. Attention is focused on four controversial issues; namely, competitive sports in relation to: (1) normal growth and development; (2) emotional well being; (3) danger of exploitation; and (4) distortion of sense of values. While research hearing on these issues is not conclusive, the findings to date indicate that these hazards have been exaggerated. There are, however, hidden dangers, for the conditions under which such sports are often conducted are for from optimal, particularly in respect to the type of leadership and medical supervision that is provided. The article concludes by summarizing the guidelines of the recent policy statement on competitive sports for young boys released jointly by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the AAHPEK, the AMA Committee on the Medical Aspects of Sports, and the State Society of Directors of Health, Physical Education and Recreation.