Reasons why adolescents practice or drop out of sports: a descriptive study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24310/riccafd.15.1.2026.22952Keywords:
sports motivation, sports dropout, adolescents, psychological factorsAbstract
The objective of the present study was to determine the prevalence of motives for sport participation and dropout among adolescents at the upper secondary education level. Validated questionnaires were administered to a sample of high school students to assess motives for physical-sport practice as well as personal and social reasons associated with sport abandonment. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and measures of central tendency. The results showed that motives for dropout presented low to moderate levels of agreement, with lack of time standing out as the personal reason with the highest relative agreement (M = 2.73). Regarding motives for sport participation, enjoyment of the activity and the emotional well-being associated with its practice were particularly prominent, especially feeling happy while engaging in sport (M = 6.08). These findings are consistent with recent literature, which identifies intrinsic motivation (linked to enjoyment and health) as a key factor in promoting sport adherence among adolescents. Additionally, previous studies highlight the influence of personal and social variables, such as self-perception, gender stereotypes, and social support, on the risk of sport dropout. In conclusion, motives for sport participation and abandonment in adolescents result from a combination of personal, social, and school-related factors. The results provide relevant evidence for the design of sport programs that prioritize enjoyment, perceived competence, and supportive environments that encourage continued engagement in physical activity during adolescence.
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