Bullying and Abuse in Kids Sports: It’s Gone Viral

Amateur sport coaches routinely commit psychological abuses against young athletes that trigger a “toxic tornado” with long-lasting effects on their development according to research.

Research indicates that we have come to accept certain coaching behaviors as a cultural norm in youth sport. These behaviors include yelling, swearing, physical altercations, threats, physical and emotional outbursts, as well as withholding and isolation. Evidence suggests that repeated exposure to these types of behavior has serious, negative, long-term emotional consequences - and they violate the rights of children.

Direct abuses include coaches berating or threatening players, inciting violent play and demoralizing young players.

Indirect abuses include coaches harassing officials, opposing players and spectators.

There were 9,343 critical incidents logged in 23,852 youth hockey games played in 2007 in three large leagues, according to data. This translates to 39% incidents of abuse at all games.  

If you want to be one of those individuals that can aid in facilitating a change in sports, join in and find out how. We are joined LIVE by Elaine Raakman of Just Play and Deliberate Acts of Kindness to elaborate on the disturbing details of research on Wednesday January 9 7PM EST at BEYONDtheCheers on blogtalkradio. Dial-in TOLL FREE 1-877-357-2448 in Canada and United States to ask a question, or email in advance.