Summary: Harmful Effects Of Participation Trophies

Harmful Effects of Participation Trophies
Studies reported to Evan Grossman of Men's Journal have shown that the generation of people reaching adulthood now are considered a bunch of “self-obsessed, irresponsible, and unmotivated generation of false achievers.” What could have caused this? A huge cause of this is what is known as the “self-esteem movement” according to Evan Grossman of Men’s Journal. Kids are given rewards and trophies for participation and maybe even just showing up to simply build their confidence. Participation awards may build confidence but it is also a huge issue in our society. These rewards are giving kids the feeling of success even if they haven’t done anything to achieve success. This is teaching kids to be complacent
In chapter 7 of The Achievement Habit, Roth says that “It’s important to learn to be motivated to do your best, regardless of what happens around you” (Roth 171). Children need to be exposed to experiences that have supportive coaches and role models so that they develop a sense of excitement and commitment without the discouragement of defeat. Young people who participate in group activities should be taught the T.E.A.M.-”Together Everyone Accomplishes More” (anonymous), which celebrates the cooperation of the whole team winning, more than competition of just one person being the best. Hard work and personal achievements can still be rewarded without hurting relationships, lowering standards and creating a world of
Those in charge of the sports activities here in Sterling should focus on getting today’s youth passionate about the sport they are involved in. Many of the sports available for young children are run by an organization, but do not set guidelines for the parent coaches to follow. A standard set of values that deserve recognition should be provided to the volunteers who guide young athletes. Each team could have an end of the season dinner or get together, where each child’s biggest accomplishment gets recognized. Recognizing individual achievements gives each child an actual realistic confidence booster that they can be proud of. Having each teammate say something nice or constructive about someone else would build the relationships between team members and create a stronger community. The team t-shirts that are given to each player at the beginning of the season are a great momento of the child’s involvement in the sport, participation trophies are