Sports activities in puberty affect the development of self-esteem

Cyprus International University (CIU) School of Physical Education and Sports Lecturer Assist. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Şükrü Rona pointed out the importance of self-confidence gained during puberty and said that the sports activities carried out during this period are of great significance in gaining self-esteem.

Reminding that puberty is a period between childhood and adulthood, Rona shared the information that “During this period, physical, emotional and social changes are experienced intensely and this is a transition period when the fastest changes that shape our future happen.”

Rona also expressed that the self-confidence gained during this period affects these individuals not only physically but also the trust they have in themselves and their potential to be successful in life. 

Emphasizing that sports activities are an important booster in gaining self-confidence, Rona also stated that an active lifestyle supports individuals lead a healthy and strong physical life, and also helps develop social skills.

Rona said that training and competitions have a positive effect on their ability to reach goals, push their limits, manage stress, compete, cope with difficulties and focus on goals; for example, the difficulties encountered while doing sports teach them to struggle instead of giving up; being part of a team teaches how to collaborate, and develop leadership skills. He also stated that they learn to emphatize. 

Pointing out that sportive activities not only help gain self-confidence but also benefits them in the social sense,  Rona said, "It is easier for this age group to establish positive friendship bonds with those they work with".

Rona underlined that while the physical, mental and social gains of sportive activities strengthen the self-trust of individuals in puberty, sportive experiences increase the self-confidence of those in  this age group and lay the groundwork for their future success.