After-school sports programs' effect on at-risk youth.

摘要

This is a research-based study regarding the efficacy of after school sports programs for youth who demonstrate maladaptive behaviors and have been involved at some level with the court system. The study reviews exemplary programs throughout the United States that have been tested with effective research methodologies and extensive follow up to establish longitudinal results of effectiveness. These programs stand out because of factors such as protection from gang and drug involvement, peer-to-peer mentoring, developing positive self-esteem, problem-solving skills, exercise, and improved discipline. These programs have proven effective for deterring young males from delinquent behavior, and have shown the positive effects of sports programs during the danger zone time of 3:00-5:00 p.m. The thesis also outlines a sample program, the Soccer Kid Intervention Program (SKIP), which consists of academic enrichment and sports activities. This program demonstrates how implementation of sports can play a major role in preventing and reducing male juvenile delinquency. The SKIP program increases the likelihood of participants' development of a routine that will enable participation in sports activities during a two-hour block of time after the regular day at school. Keys to the success after school sports programs are the training of staff and workforce about best practices in serving these youth.