Recently, speculation of the role and expectations associated with being a good sports parent have been identified with a clear pattern of positive and negative themes emerging. Parents set the course of a young persons life, primarily because they provide ample opportunities and sources of information- exerting significant influence (Coakley, 1992, cited in Cahill and Pearl, 1993). Although all parents display a broad spectrum of involvement within sports, studies have supported the notion that positive parental involvement outwardly relates to positive predictors of enjoyment, participation and continued membership. However, what appears to be of great significance is that this may not be directly related …show more content…
These levels of involvement can be detrimental to performance, especially since parent’s motivation can produce the greatest likelihood of success and continued performance (Weinberg, 1981). Under-involvement refers to the absence or lack of functional, financial and emotional investment on behalf of the parents. In particular, this type of involvement is specifically noticed through lack of attendance at games and events, minimal financial investment into sports equipment, and few volunteer propositions. Additionally, it hinders assistance with transportation, team talk conferences with coaches, and no support in helping children set realistic outcome and performance goals (Hellstedt, 1987; Bremer, 2012). Disinterested and misinformed parents tend to fall under the umbrella of the term …show more content…
Whilst this may appeal to many parents, it is all too obvious for children and they may feel that their parents are not interested in their sporting career nor do they wish to be a part of it. Similarly, in a recent study, 32% of children interviewed stated that they participated in sport because their parents wanted them