Flow: Family Dynamics and Adolescent Experiences in Soccer

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to conduct an exploratory study of parental involvement in youth sports. The Flow Model developed by Mihalyi Csikszentmihalyi is used as the basis of my theory behind the research. Although there has been recognition that it is important to study young athletes, little is known about parental involvement. Thus, my three main research questions are: (a) How do adolescents experience their participation in soccer? (b) What are the family dynamics, as expressed by parents, related to challenging and supporting their children? And (c) How do adolescents experience the relationship between these family dynamics and their participation in soccer?

My methods of inquiry of this study included collecting data through two questionnaires: (a) Experience Sampling Method (ESM) and (b) Support/Challenge Questionnaire (SCQ). I also conducted in-depth interviews. My participants included 11 males and 10 females 14-15 years of age. Each of these participants were administered the two questionnaires. Of these 21 participants, eight adolescent athletes and their parents were followed up with in-depth interviews.

The results of this research are organized into four main categories including communication, family interaction, goals and beliefs, and expectations. From these themes, three categories for implications were developed to encompass soccer implications, therapy implications, and research implications. Ultimately, acknowledging how adults affect the outcomes of children's stress and enjoyment, parents can deal more successfully with the social, emotional, and psychological needs of their young athletes (Scanlan & Lewthwaite, 1986).