Date of Award
2022
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Education
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of the phenomenon of sport specialization through the vantage points of participants and the parents of participants. Research questions were related to motivating factors, academic performance, and emotional well-being for the specialized athlete. Participants that passed a screening survey that indicated background knowledge on sport specialization, where they or their child only participated in one sport throughout high school, were chosen for the study. A series of semi-structured interviews took place with participants and parents of participants to acquire a deeper knowledge on the dealings with the sport specialization experience. Some developing themes evolved in the study, which included an endearment of sport, relationships matter, autonomy and independence, handling discomfort and pain, and transitional skills through academics and sports. Further sub-themes were identified in the study—satisfaction, friends and teammate dynamics, coaching dynamics, immediate family and travel team influence, personal identity, aiming for success, injuries, surgeries, exertion, academic endeavors, and balancing responsibilities. Conclusions from the study were understanding motivation, academic outlook for the specialized athlete, and well-being outlook. Implications comprised of understanding the role of the specialized athlete, role for school leaders, role for parents, and role for sports directors.
Recommended Citation
Prichard, Michael Wayne, "Sport Specialization Participants: Motivating Factors And The Impact On Academic Achievement And Emotional Well-Being During And After High School" (2022). All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2070.
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/etds/2070