Mental Health and Developmental Needs of Youth Athletes: A Mixed Methods Study

Despite the prevalence and benefits of extracurricular involvement in sports for youth, few scholars have conceptualized youth mental health and development within the context of sport environments. The aim of this investigation was to create a visual framework of actions, thoughts, and feelings that promote mental health and development for youth athletes. Using a participatory mixed methods approach known as group concept mapping, 37 subject matter experts in youth athlete wellness contributed to a remote brainstorming activity by identifying the actions, thoughts, and feelings needed for youth athletes to maximize their mental health and development. Twenty-five subject matter experts then sorted the brainstormed items and rated their importance to youth mental health and development. Following data collection, the research team performed a hierarchical cluster analysis and multidimensional scaling analysis to create a point-map of items that were organized into five clusters: growth mindset, self-assurance, team culture, socioenvironmental factors, and health behaviors. Once these findings are replicated and validated in further research, parents, coaches, and sport professionals can use them to build a strong foundation for athletes in years to come. In doing so, youth athletes can remain engaged in sport and continue to experience the many benefits of sport across the lifespan.