Physical Activity & Sport in the Lives of Girls: Physical & Mental Health Dimensions from an Interdisciplinary Approach

Abstract

The report compiles research information from the disciplines of psychology, sociology, and physiology. Emphasizing the importance of sport for growing girls, the report cites several studies demonstrating that girls' participation in sport enhances body image and self-esteem, increases confidence and scholastic performance, decreases school drop-out rates, and reduces the risk of many physiological and psychological conditions, such as obesity, osteoporosis, and depression. The report identifies barriers to girls' successful sport involvement including gender stereotyping and institutional barriers (e.g., lack of funding), as well as provides recommendations on how to improve girls' participation rates in athletics.