In the US, a common worry of parents is whether their children have a high self-esteem. In the age of increased awareness of the ramifications of bullying behavior (physical, verbal, and relational-aggression), as well as increased competition it is no wonder parents are concerned. Aleksandar is a coordinator of athletic programs for Centervale. In the past, parents have insisted on participation trophies for all kids playing sports between the ages of 5 and 11. There is currently a debate in Centervale regarding whether participation trophies for everyone should continue through middle school as well. Some parents think it will help with self-esteem, while other parents recall never getting participation trophies when they were growing up and think losing can be a good lesson. Think about what you have learned in this module about physical, cognitive, and socioemotional development in middle childhood.
- What type of parenting style would lend itself well to creating a healthy self-esteem? Why?
- What would your recommendation be to the sports organizer who wonders if everyone should receive a trophy just for participating?
- What arguments can be made on both sides of the debate?