An investigation into the correlation between parent’s influence in their child’s early specialisation in sport

Abstract

This investigation was undertaken in order to establish if there is a correlation between parent’s influences and the early specialisation in sport of their children. The study was conducted with 126 subjects aged 14-16 across three secondary schools in Northern Ireland. Questionnaires were issued to children in order to gather information regarding their level of sporting involvement as well as their parent’s involvement. Information gathered was kept confidential and inputted into Microsoft Excel where it was analysed, and correlations were investigated. The study concluded mixed results, parents who were previously involved in sport had a positive correlation with their child’s early involvement and continued involvement in sport, yet their sport of choice did not correlate.