It has been stated, “We need to distinguish between an award and a reward” (Pricemen). Earning a first place trophy feels better knowing that all the hard work they put into getting there was worth it. Then not working at all and getting a trophy they didn’t work for. Participation trophies can be good if they are used properly; “It is odd and sad in the age of social media, that too many people criticize participation trophies” (Pricemen). Participation trophies can motivate children to work harder to succeed the next time the next time they compete. Yet, the majority of children that get a participation trophies choose to give up and shy away from the sport they are playing. Participation trophies neglect the development of children. It has acknowledged “It’s fine to say ‘You didn’t go to all the games. You didn’t attend all the practices. And the other kid worked really hard and did well and he deserves a trophy and you should go over and congratulate him” (Wallace). Participation trophies tell children that trying there hardest to earn a medal has no meaning. As …show more content…
Participation trophies can give a child the drive to succeed and come in first. Or to give up and walk away from the sport they are playing. Merryman states “ We must focus on process and progress, not results and rewards” (Merryman). Children that do good and succeed in the sport that they are playing makes them have a sense of pride when they win. And may possibly lose that pride when they get a participation trophy.
Merry man says “Thus letting kids lose, or not taking home the trophy isn’t about embarrassing our children” (Merryman). The effort that children put forth will be shown by the trophy they earn. The people who work the hardest will get the best reward. And the people who cheat themselves and do not give it there all will be