How can parental involvement negatively affect youth athletes?

Parental involvement can have a negative impact on youth athletes primarily by causing undue pressure and stress. When parents are overly involved or place excessive expectations on their children, it can lead to feelings of anxiety and fear of failure in young athletes. This pressure can stem from a desire for their child to succeed, excel, or fulfill the parents’ aspirations, which can detract from the enjoyment of the sport and the overall experience for the athlete.

This undue pressure may lead to various negative outcomes, such as burnout, decreased performance, or withdrawal from the sport altogether. Youth sports should primarily be about personal growth, enjoyment, and development, rather than solely focusing on winning or achieving high performance. When parents lose sight of these fundamental principles in their involvement, it can adversely affect their child's psychological well-being and love for the game.