In the world of youth sports, one of the
most controversial topics of our time is whether children should be awarded for
participation. You might often hear someone complaining that kids today are
different in so many ways, often correlating back to kids receiving
participation awards instead of having to work for recognition. An awards
store in Baytown, Texas is discussing what
psychologists have to say on this controversial issue.
The Argument Against Participation
Trophies
Most people who are against giving out
participation trophies feel strongly that this overprotects children. People
often say giving trophies to children no matter how much effort put in or how
poor the performance is, only protects their feelings about losing. Leaving
them to grow up with a feeling of entitlement, instead of working hard to be
recognized for their accomplishments. Making children feel like they do not
have to work hard because they are going to receive a trophy no matter what.
Dan Gould is a psychologist in sports who
believes children need to work for rewards or the incentive of receiving the
reward will not work. Another argument often brought up, is that participation
trophies can bring down the attitude of kids that do work hard because their
efforts are not recognized above non-efforts. This leaves these children no
longer wanting to try or having a sense of accomplishment.
The Argument for Participation Trophies
For those who argue that participation
trophies are a great idea for children, often start with the evidence that
overwhelmingly the benefits of participation trophies create positive
reinforcement in younger children. People of this side of the argument often
argue that participation trophies emphasize other values such as being apart
of a team, trying new things, encouraging social skills, and being present no
matter the outcome of the game. Some argue that giving children rewards for
actions instead of the process that helps them get there can cause them to cut
corners in the future.
What the Experts Say
Just like the culture today there are
studies on both sides of the argument supporting both theories. However, both
sides can agree that as kids get older trophies lose their effectiveness.
According to research by the age of eight participation trophies can leave kids
feeling frustrated. However, studies have shown that for younger kids,
participation trophies can help children gain interest in the sport and induce
excitement. At the end of the day awarding participation trophies in Baytown, Texas
is really up to the coach or parents leading the sport.
For over 20 years we have proudly
supplied quality awards and promotional products all over the country.
Call or visit our trained staff and let them provide you with outstanding
service today at Awards & Engraving.
Awards & Engraving
1214 Massey Tompkins Rd
Baytown, TX 77521
(281) 420-1299
Comments
Post a Comment