SPORT PSYCHIATRY IN CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE - AN OVERVIEW

This review explores the importance and relevance of sport during chil dhood and adolescence, utilizing traditional stage theories of develop ment. The literature supports the notion that sport is a necessary stu dy as a health issue and a preventative tool in the field of psychiatr y. Play and sport in childhood and adolescence enhance development phy sically, mentally, and socially. Participating in athletics encourages the development of leadership skills, self-esteem, muscle development and overall physical health. There is a lack of literature in the imp ortant area of sport psychiatry especially when considering beneficial , not deficit oriented youth athletic development. Child psychiatrists need to begin researching sport in order to develop a comprehensive u nderstanding of how athletics can enhance the mental and physical heal th of youth.