A critical approach on examining parental influence on children's physical activity participation

By adopting an ethnographic method and critical approach, the primary aim of the project was to examine the beliefs parents have about their children's participation in physical activity. Three pairs of parents, both fathers and mothers, aged forty to forty-two, and four students (male= 2, female= 2), aged twelve to fourteen, were invited for a semi-structured interview. Findings suggested that parents, since the children's childhood years, are responsible to shape their lifestyles through approval or disapproval of behaviors. Parents believe that by participating in sports not only contribute to the well-being of their children but also improve their academic success. Besides, parents were supportive in both their son's and daughter's participation in physical activity regularly. Results and recommendations would help to enhance parents, physical educators and curriculum planners the importance of parental involvement in the process of physical education.