An Index Approach to Early Specialization Measurement: An Exploratory Study.

Charlotte Downing,Karin Redelius,Sanna M Nordin-Bates

doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00999

Charlotte Downing, Karin Redelius + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00999

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Abstract

The methodological underpinnings of studies into early specialization have recently been critiqued. Previous researchers have commented on the variety of, and over-simplified, methods used to capture early specialization. This exploratory study, therefore, suggests a new direction for how early specialization can be conceptualized and measured. We aim to create an index approach whereby early specialization is measured as a continuous variable, in line with commonly used definitions. The continuous variable for degrees of early specialization is calculated from a questionnaire which captures the four key components of early specialization; (1) intensity, (2) year-round training, (3) single sport, and (4) commencing age 12 or younger. The proposed index approach is illustrated in a sample of 290 Swedish aesthetic performers aged 12–20 years (M = 15.88), whose descriptive statistics are used to discuss the suitability and usability of the measure. The proposed index approach functions as a guideline to future researchers. We hope that introducing a new index approach we will encourage further discussion around the measurement of early specialization. Additionally, we hope to pave the way for future research to explore more complex research questions.

Highlights

Specialization is a contentious topic and researchers continue to debate the optimal developmental pathway toward athletic expertise (e.g., Côté, 1999; Storm et al, 2012)
Researchers have questioned the evidence base underpinning recommendations against early specialization (DiSanti and Erickson, 2019; Larson et al, 2019). This direction for inquiry possibly derives from the conceptualization of early specialization, and whether the measurement approaches are true to the generally accepted definition
Not considered a sport, we argue that dance is a highly selective activity that mirrors the demands of sports

Summary

Introduction

Specialization is a contentious topic and researchers continue to debate the optimal developmental pathway toward athletic expertise (e.g., Côté, 1999; Storm et al, 2012). Researchers have questioned the evidence base underpinning recommendations against early specialization (DiSanti and Erickson, 2019; Larson et al, 2019). This direction for inquiry possibly derives from the conceptualization of early specialization, and whether the measurement approaches are true to the generally accepted definition. To explore a new continuous measurement index that is better aligned to the general definition of early specialization. To address this aim, we will (1) illustrate the new index approach with a sample of aesthetic performers, and (2) critically evaluate the merits of the proposed index approach.

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