Exploring the Relationship between Parental Involvement and Perceived Athletic Success in Former Athletes
Exploring the Relationship between Parental Involvement and Perceived Athletic Success in Former Athletes
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Issue Date
2007
Authors
Gomez, Yvonne
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the factors affecting the perception of success an athlete has post career. Emphasis was placed on the parental role and it's contribution to this perception. The role of coach was also explored as it emerged as an important theme throughout the study. A Grounded Theory approach was employed to analyze, categorize, and code six interviews with former athletes. The codes were then further analyzed and separated into positive and negative characteristics. The results suggested that parents and coaches can have both positive and negative impact on the child's athletic experience. This study also highlights the importance of the social factor in sports and the need for solid support throughout the athletic career. In addition, the coach is seen as a highly influential part of the sport experience. Finally, a key finding of this study suggests that the child's perception of involvement (of parents or coach) can be more important than the actual physical, financial, or emotional involvement. Specifically, the quality of parental and coach involvement as seen by the athlete can directly influence the athletic experience.