Self-Regulation in Childhood: A Developmental Perspective

Abstract

A solution for high school male athletes who demonstrate unsportsmanlike behavior during competition is discussed. In recent years, there has been an increase in unsportsmanlike conduct among high school athletes, including the use of profanity and obscene gestures, public expressions of dissatisfaction, negative comments, incidents of vandalism, on-court scuffles, and violent occurrences. Data gathered from a pre-test showed that male athletes had a low level of knowledge of the importance of sportsmanlike behavior and that many lacked an ethical code of behavior. Expected outcomes for 30 targeted male athletes from five different teams were: (1) 15 out of 30 athletes will score at least 75 on the post-test; (2) a decrease of warnings, fouls, and technical fouls by one third; (3) a decrease of disqualifications and suspensions by one half, and (4) an increase in the conference sportsmanship average for at least three of the five teams. To achieve these objectives a 32-week Sportsmanship Educational Model was implemented which educated the athletes and held them responsible for their behavior. After implementation of this program, three out of the four outcomes were achieved. Specific recommendations, including the establishment of a moral and ethical code in athletic programs, are given. (LH)