Sports-Based Positive Youth Development: Youth Outcomes and Parent Perceptions

Background: Sport-based positive youth development programs (PYD) increase protective factors, reduce risk factors, and promote positive youth outcomes among youth  (Holt, 2016).  There is limited research, however,... [ view full abstract ]

Background:

Sport-based positive youth development programs (PYD) increase protective factors, reduce risk factors, and promote positive youth outcomes among youth  (Holt, 2016).  There is limited research, however, exploring the value of sports-based PYD for youth of color and living in poverty (Anderson-Butcher et al., 2016). One sports-based PYD program serving vulnerable youth in the United States is the Learning in Fitness & Education through Sports (LiFEsports) program at The Ohio State University. Each year LiFEsports serves approximately 600 youth aged 9-15 living in poverty in its summer camp and monthly sports clinics. This study explores social and physical developmental outcomes associated with youth participation in this program.    

Methods:

Three hundred and sixty three youth completed pre and post-test surveys assessing self-perceptions in the five key social skills targeted in the program, including self-control, effort, teamwork, social responsibility, and social competence. Youth also completed the PACER test pre and post program participation. Additionally, 100 parents completed a post-test survey exploring their perceptions related to the program’s impact.     

Results:  

Paired sample t-tests demonstrated statistically significant improvements in all five social skills, with the largest growth shown in the areas focused on inter-personal skills. For instance, pre-test scores were 4.01 (SD= .85) and post-test scores were 4.18 (SD=.78) on Perceived Social Competence Scale-II (Anderson-Butcher et al., 2014). Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER) scores also significantly improved among the youth, especially in those entering with lower fitness levels. Parents were highly satisfied with the program. For instance, 89% of parent respondents indicated their child “enhanced their sport skills” and 90% indicated their child “learned to act responsibly” at LiFEsports. 

Conclusions and Implications:

Data provide initial evidence demonstrating outcomes associated with participation in LiFEsports, especially for vulnerable youth. Sports-based PYD programs have the potential to make significant positive impacts on social and physical development.