Evaluation on the impact of a soccer training program on the behavioral development of the teenage participants

This study examined the impact of a soccer training program organized by a district social service group on the behavioral development of 35 teenage participants. Interviews were conducted with program participants in order to find out their attitude towards the program by understanding their intention of participation, perceived benefits, attitude towards winning and losing, and the reason of adherence. The social behavior of the program participants were assessed by their parents and teachers by using the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ; Goodmam, 1997). Results suggested that health benefits, fulfillment of fun and social benefits of having more friends and support from family were the main reasons of their participation. They were intrinsically motivated in taking part in the program and adopted a positive attitude towards participation by demonstrating strong team cohesion. Feedback from parents and teachers also consolidated that program participants generally demonstrated a normal behavior towards society with low difficulty indexes and high prosocial behavior index. Base on findings from the study, recommendations were made for the launching of similar program. The effectiveness of such sport program on moral development should be examined in future longitudinal studies.