Presentation Abstract

Student's Name: Arianna Bryce Rudd '29

Co-registrant Names:

Type of Presentation: Research Presentation: One or more registrants presenting research

Presentation Title: "Do Students Who Played Sports as Kids Feel More Confident in College Than Those Who Didn’t?"

Abstract:

This paper examines whether participation in youth sports contributes to higher confidence in college students, defining confidence through constructs such as self‑esteem, social competence, and resilience. Using a review of five peer‑reviewed studies, the paper synthesizes evidence on how early athletic experiences support the development of psychological skills that underlie confidence, including emotional regulation, social belonging, self‑sufficiency, and motivation. Across the studies, positive sport environments and structured physical activity were consistently associated with stronger self-esteem and social competence in young adulthood, while team-based experiences and mastery-oriented coaching supported long-term motivation and self-worth. Together, these findings suggest that youth sports promote confidence not only through athletic achievement, but also developmental benefits may also emerge from other structured, growth-oriented childhood activities.

Return To Schedule