Sport-based Youth Development Programs Research Articles

Retention in Junior Giants, a sport-based youth development program: what factors are associated with intentions to return?

While evaluation research shows that physical activity-based youth development (PA-PYD) programs can have a positive impact on social and emotional growth, less is known about which participants return year after year and what factors are associated with their continued participation. The Junior Giants is a sport-based youth development program for 5-18-year-old boys and girls that is non-competitive and free to participate. The 8-week program uses baseball and softball as platforms for teaching life skills and fostering social emotional competencies. This mixed-methods study evaluated quantitative factors associated with intentions to return to the program the following year and qualitative reasons why parents/caregivers intended not to re-enroll their child. Parents/caregivers of Junior Giants participants (N = 8,495) completed online surveys about their child's demographics, social emotional climate and learning, character development, and intentions to return the following year. Descriptive data illustrated that parents/caregivers reported quite positive outcomes and experiences for their child. Chi-square and t-test analyses revealed significant differences (p < .001) between intended returners (n = 7,179, 84.5%) and those who reported no/undecided on returning (n = 1,316, 15.5%). Intended returners were significantly more likely to be identified as Latino and be in their second year of participation. Significant predictors of a binomial logistic regression [χ2 (df = 22) = 1,463.25, p < .001] included age, race/ethnicity, years played, character development, reading, league experiences, physical activity, and perceived support, with small to medium effect sizes. Using responses from a subset of 217 parents/caregivers who reported their child would not return to the program, a thematic analysis resulted in seven themes: Lack of Organization and Communication; Dissatisfied with Coaching, Didn't Learn Baseball/Softball, Not Competitive Enough, Skill Levels Not Matched, Aged Out, and Non-Program Related Reasons. Quantitative results contribute to the literature on predictors of retention in youth development programs, while qualitative findings echo common motives cited for dropout in youth sport. Both provide opportunities for reflection and potential changes to future programming.

It’s all relative: examining the influence of social identity on sport-based youth development

ABSTRACT Social identity theory provides a framework for understanding how identities tied to sport-based youth development programs facilitate positive youth development (PYD). A common assumption guiding youth sport policy and practice is that the social identities formed around sport-based youth development programs are more salient for youth with limited social support, yet this relationship has not been empirically examined. Using a repeated measures research design, the current study examined the influence of program-based social identity on PYD indicators and tested if this association varied across youth with different levels of social support. Latent profile analysis was employed to identify sub-groups based on key social support domains (i.e. family, peers, coaches). The identified subgroups were then integrated into a repeated measures multivariate analysis of covariance, followed up by univariate and regression analyses. Findings reveal that the impact of program-based social identity on the change in PYD indicators was stronger for youth with limited support from family and peers. However, youth with the strongest support in all domains displayed the strongest indicators of PYD over the program season. The results inform a discussion of theoretical implications related to the role of program-based social identity in PYD and highlight managerial recommendations of sport-based youth development program design and management.

Anti-Racist Research Methods in Sport-Based Youth Development

In this article, we examine the process of conducting anti-racist research in Sport for Development, specifically Sport-Based Youth Development programs in the United States. We acknowledge that participatory methods have been both identified and problematized as approaches to challenge the racialized experiences of youth. We share examples of attempts at Youth Participatory Action Research utilized across six previously unpublished projects. Through sharing our efforts to co-create environments with youth to produce changes impacting their development, we provide insight on our experiences and shortcomings. Finally, we conclude with implications for the field of Sport for Development, and youth-focused scholars, on deconstructing contexts that preserve and privilege whiteness.

Identities and Relationships: Black and Latina Adolescent girls in Sport-Based Youth Development Programs

Identities and Relationships: Black and Latina Adolescent girls in Sport-Based Youth Development Programs

Development and transference of intentional self-regulation through a sport-based youth development program

ABSTRACT Intentional self-regulation (ISR) is a critical personal asset associated with positive youth development (PYD). It is generally assumed that sport-based youth development (SBYD) programs cultivate skills such as ISR through sport then help youth transfer such skills to other domains of life. However, empirical research on ISR development and transference remains scarce and inconsistent, which complicates effective SBYD program design and management. The purpose of the current study was to examine the influence of a SBYD program on the development and transference of domain-specific ISR (i.e., sport and life), as well as the impact of both ISR domains on a key indicator of PYD (i.e. self-worth). Structural equation modeling and cross-lagged panel modeling was utilized to analyze ISR development and transference during a 5-month program season, as well as the resulting influence on a key indicator of PYD (i.e., self-worth). Findings suggest domain-specific conceptualizations of ISR and an alternative transference logic between sport and life domains. The results offer theoretical implications related to ISR development and transference within SBYD contexts and outline several recommendations of program design and management.

Using Behavioral Economics to Promote Positive Youth Development through Sport

Many sport-based youth development (SBYD) programs assume that short-term changes in participant attitudes, knowledge, and intentions will lead to long-term behavior change. However, this does not automatically occur, leading to questions about the efficacy and longevity of outcomes from SBYD programs. This paper discusses innovative solutions from the field of behavioral economics, which SBYD programs could use to support and promote individual behavior change. Nine tools for behavior change are outlined within a MINDSPACE (Messenger, Incentives, Norms, Defaults, Salience, Priming, Affect, Commitment, and Ego) model, with a specific focus on how SBYD programs can use these tools to promote positive youth development.

An Alternative Conceptualization of the Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility Model

The Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility model (TPSR) is a well-established pedagogical approach that is implemented in physical education and sport-based youth development programs in the USA and internationally. This article offers an alternative model which presents the levels/goals as non-hierarchical and positions transfer of learning, not as the final level of a cumulative process, but as fundamental to the model and underpinning the other four levels/goals. The article concludes with suggestions on how teachers and coaches can implement this alternative conceptualized model into their practice.

Programmatic strategies for optimal interactions in a youth sport for development context

ABSTRACT Rationale/purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine a single sport-based youth development program across a variety of contexts and examine programmatic differences and similarities that lead to positive outcomes. Research methods: Through semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and direct observation, we analyzed the program inputs and designs of ten different sites operating within the same sport-based youth development organization. Findings: Programs operating across different environments used a range of strategies to tailor the needs to its community, including changes to program design, recruitment, co-participation, and parental investment. Practical implications: Findings outline potential strategies for sport-based youth development programs to incorporate their community into the program to achieve outcomes. Research contribution: Findings suggest that individual environments are essential to a program design that creates optimal interactions, and that using local approaches can help create an environment that incites true community development rather than singular individual outcomes.

Implementation and perceived benefits of an after-school soccer program designed to promote social and emotional learning

Social and emotional learning (SEL) competencies such as self-awareness and relationship skills are predictors of academic success, overall well-being, and avoidance of problematic behaviors. Among school-aged children, research has demonstrated that well-implemented programs teach SEL competencies and life skills (e.g., leadership, responsible decision making) that can transfer to other settings. Similar claims have been made in the field of sport-based youth development (SBYD), however, the SEL framework has not been widely applied in sport programming. Implementation, student learning, and transfer of learning in SBYD programs designed to promote SEL require further exploration. Therefore, the current study examined the implementation and perceived benefits of an after-school soccer program designed to promote SEL. Participants were six coaches and 51 students from three different sites where this program is offered. A multiple case study design was used, integrating data from customized feedback surveys, interviews, systematic observation, and field notes. Results indicated the program reflects many SBYD best practices. Although implementation varied between sites, program culture and core values were consistent. Evidence indicated students learned and applied SEL lessons in the soccer program and that transfer beyond the program was promoted. Participants were most likely to report transfer to the school setting, therefore, future studies should examine this topic more directly. Other implications for research and program implementation are discussed.

Sports as a passport to success: life skill integration in a positive youth development program

ABSTRACTBackground: Sport-based youth development (SBYD) programs aim to teach life skills to youth within a physical activity context. An explicit objective of most SBYD programs is that youth learn to apply, or transfer, life skills beyond the sports program. Limited research has been conducted on the cognitive processes that help youth understand how life skills apply within and beyond sports.Purpose: This study uses a conceptual framework on transfer of life skills to examine the role of life skills in an SBYD program. Research questions include: (1) how does the SBYD program integrate the teaching of life skills, (2) how do youth participants experience the life skills in the boxing program, and (3) how do youth participants perceive the life skills impact them beyond the program.Methodology: This research took place at three community boxing academies in New Zealand. The three academies were selected because they are affiliated with a boxing program that is committed to implementing a life skills framework called the Passport to Success. Forty-one youth (31 boys, 10 girls) across the three sites participated in focus groups interviews about their experience in the program. Additionally, observations of program implementation documented the daily routines of each boxing academy. Using a qualitative case study design, inductive analysis and constant comparative methods were used to identify emergent themes.Findings: Youth participants perceived life skills to be a foundational component of the boxing program. The life skills were presented to youth through the ‘Passport to Success’, a document featuring eight key life skills. The coaches focused on the Passport to Success in several ways, including setting an expectation that youth memorize the life skills to demonstrate their commitment. Several youth participants discussed learning valuable lessons around the life skills. Finally, youth were able to describe scenarios which demonstrated how the life skills connected with other areas of their lives.Conclusion: Life skills implementation was guided by the Passport to Success and an expectation that youth develop positive relationships in the gym. A routine strategy for memorizing the Passport to Success provided a clear example of youth learning the meaning of life skills in the context of sports. The youth participants demonstrated cognitive connections in their explanation of the value of life skills beyond the boxing program. Using the conceptual framework on transfer [Jacobs and Wright 2018. “Transfer of Life Skills in Sport-Based Youth Development Programs: A Conceptual Framework Bridging Learning to Application.” Quest 70 (1): 81–99] helps to explain the cognitive connections youth participants make between life skills in a sports program and their application beyond sports.

Perceptions of a Sport-Based Youth Development Program: Swim to the Top

Perceptions of a Sport-Based Youth Development Program: Swim to the Top

Restorative Youth Sports: An Applied Model for Resolving Conflicts and Building Positive Relationships

When handled effectively, conflict provides opportunities to strengthen relationships and assist youth in developing peaceful conflict resolution skills. Sport participation is one context in which youth develop skills and encounter conflict. The purpose of this study was to develop an applied model that addresses conflict resolution in sport-based youth development programs. Using qualitative interviewing, a community-engaged approach guided the selection of participants and data analysis. We used the models of restorative practice and Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility (TPSR) through sports to guide our study. Following interviews with a variety of community partners, we found that the values of sport are often in conflict with restorative practices. However, a relational approach such as TPSR aligns well with the values of restorative practices. Based on our findings, an applied model was developed to illustrate how restorative practice can be utilized in a sport context. The Restorative Youth Sports (RYS) model recognizes that conflicts and tension are natural and inherent to all relationships. When handled appropriately, conflict provides opportunities to strengthen relationships. Youth sport provides a unique context where youth are presented with problems and conflicts to solve and promote healthy relationships among youth.

Enhancing the Transfer of Life Skills from Sport-based Youth Development Programs to School, Family, and Community Settings

When designed intentionally, sport-based youth development programs engage youth in physical activity, sport, and exercise as a way to concurrently pursue goals related to socioemotional and physical development (Holt et al., 2017). One such application of this is the Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility (TPSR) model (Hellison, 2011) which has the ultimate goal of students transferring lessons learned within the sport setting to other areas of their life, including family, community, and school. However, once youth leave the program setting, they become vulnerable to challenges from external systems working to support or hinder their transfer of life skills (Martinek &amp; Lee, 2012). Therefore, we propose that (in)congruence among family, school, community and program systems influence the extent to which lessons learned can transfer to other areas of their lives. Specifically drawing from the frameworks of Collective Parental Engagement (Alameda-Lawson &amp; Lawson, 2016) and Students Multiple Worlds’ model (Phelan, Davidson, &amp; Cao, 1991), we argue that skills and competency transfer is best facilitated when social settings which comprise youth’s social systems share similar values and expectations for desired behavior. Practical strategies for enhancing the transferability of lessons learned in TPSR programs through the congruence approach are shared.

Transfer of Life Skills in Sport-Based Youth Development Programs: A Conceptual Framework Bridging Learning to Application

ABSTRACTResearch has demonstrated that many quality sport-based youth development programs promote life skill acquisition (e.g., leadership, self-control) with the ultimate goal of facilitating positive outcomes in youth participants’ social and academic environments. Researchers call this “transfer of life skills” (i.e., the idea that physical, behavioral, and cognitive skills youth learn in sport can be applied in non-sport settings to promote healthy development). However, research surrounding this topic has been mixed, as many studies found evidence of transfer. In this article, a variety of learning theories were integrated to propose a conceptual framework for the transfer of life skills in sport-based youth development. Specifically, this article focuses on how research overlooked the cognitive processes that bridge student learning within a sport program to application outside of the program. A description of the cognitive components youth experience during transfer are described and represented in a logic model.

Reflections on Service-learning: Student Experiences in a Sport-based Youth Development Course

Service-learning courses provide students with practical opportunities to enhance their learning and development in the field, along with getting students engaged in different communities and settings. However, there are still many challenges to designing and offering effective service-learning courses, such as requiring all students to participate in the service-learning component and creating a larger workload for teachers. The purpose of this article is to provide a detailed description of a service-learning course in the sport-based youth development field that addresses these concerns. By partnering with a community-based organization, students enrolled in this service-learning course were able to participate in two ways: (1) serving as a student leader in the 10-week program or (2) serving as a formative evaluator by watching the videotaped sessions each week and providing constructive feedback to their peers. Through an independent study option, some students could also serve as summative evaluators of the program. This article describes the service-learning course and sport-based youth development program, with in-depth reflections from three graduate students detailing their experiences serving in different roles. The article also provides practical implications for teachers and practitioners, serving as one example of a successful service-learning course that maximizes student engagement, learning and development.

Positive Youth Development: Minority Male Participation in a Sport-Based Afterschool Program in an Urban Environment

Purpose As there is little research that investigates the experiences of minority boys participating in youth development programs (Fashola, 2003), the current research focused on a sport-based youth development program for early adolescent Black and Latino boys in Hartford, CT. Specifically, the present study explored (a) what attracted minority boys to participate in youth development programs, (b) what kept them involved, and (c) whether their involvement translated into positive developmental outcomes. Method The study used semistructured individual interviews to collect data from 8 participants and their parents. The research team deductively coded interviews in accordance with the a-priori framework of the Five Cs and Sixth C of youth development (i.e., competence, character, caring, confidence, connection, and contribution; Roth & Brooks-Gunn, 2003). In addition, interviews were deductively coded to investigate why participants became involved in the program and why they continued participation. Results Findings from the study indicated that participants became involved with the Sport Hartford Boys (SHB) program mainly due to its emphasis on sport-related activities. Moreover, findings related to the youths' continued involvement revealed their value for the SHB program as a safe place that kept them out of trouble and provided experiences that led to positive personal development. Furthermore, results indicated that participation in the program facilitated the development of each “C” of youth development. Conclusion By promoting positive relationships and providing opportunities for self-exploration in a safe and trusting environment, afterschool programs can cultivate positive youth development in minority boys, at least in the short term.

Exploring the impact of a summer sport-based youth development program

The purpose of this study was to examine the benefits of youth participation in a sport-based youth development summer program, the National Youth Sport Program (NYSP). This study also identified areas of programmatic strength within the program, as well as areas for improvement. 193 participants in NYSP completed a pre- and post-test that assessed belonging, social competence, athletic competence, and competence related to eight specific sports. Significant improvements in perceptions of overall athletic competence and competence related to five specific sports were found. Although perceptions of social competence and belonging increased from pre-to-post test, findings were not statistically significant. Site observations resulted in the identification of strengths and areas that also inform areas for programmatic improvement. Implications for the design, implementation, and evaluation of sport-based youth development programs are discussed.

Participation in a summer sport-based youth development program for disadvantaged youth: Getting the parent perspective

Abstract The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of low-income youth participation in a summer sport-based positive youth development (PYD) program on individual, parent, family, and community level outcomes. Specific mechanisms that contribute to program outcomes also were explored. Ten parents of youth participating in a summer sport-based PYD program were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Parents identified key outcomes at the individual, parent, family and community level, such as youth biopsychosocial development and positive changes in affect, parents' peace of mind due to child involvement, improved family interactions, youth involvement in prosocial activities, and community interaction/support. Key mechanisms contributing to these outcomes point to the importance of program characteristics such as the qualities and roles of counselors, incorporation of lessons for sport and life, opportunities for peer/family interactions, program structure, and the provision of resources. Findings provide qualitative evidence of the value of sport-based PYD summer programs, as well as point to important mechanisms that may guide program design in this emergent field of practice.