Influence of parental beliefs on parental support for young athletes.

INTRODUCTION: Parental influence is a central element in sport development. Therefore, parental beliefs and attitudes toward sport may influence the support provided to enhance the sport development of sons and daughters. OBJECTIVE: The present study analyzed the relationship between parental beliefs and the support provided by parents to young athletes. Before this analysis, validity evidence was examined for the instruments used in the study. METHOD: A non-probability sample of 505 adolescents and young adults from eastern Mexico City was included, with a mean age of 20.6 years (SD = 2.85). All participants practiced either an individual or team sport. RESULTS: Validity evidence was obtained for two measurement instruments. The Parental Beliefs about Sport Potential Scale was composed of four factors, and the Parental Support in Sport Scale was composed of three factors. Both scales showed adequate psychometric properties. In addition, significant positive and negative relationships were found between parental beliefs about sport potential and parental support. CONCLUSIONS: The results highlight the importance of parental influence in sport and suggest the need to promote forms of support that contribute to sport maintenance, participation, and performance.