New research shows performance demands are rising for children in sports through longer seasons, specialization and higher costs. Erik Backman at Dalarna University describes the trend as the new normal.
Erik Backman at Dalarna University and Daniel Svensson at Malmö University have analyzed changes in children's and youth sports over recent decades. They use the term sportification to describe simultaneous commercialization, professionalization and specialization.
The studies cover areas such as skateboarding and football. The researchers note that artificial facilities, more expensive equipment and more professionalized roles are now viewed as self-evident parts of the activities.
Backman warns that young people may commit too much early on and lack the stamina to continue. He stresses that the goal is for more to stay involved in sports long-term. The findings appear in a chapter in the anthology Den allvarsamma leken.
