The effects of athletic participation on academic achievement and social status

Abstract

Over the past four decades there has been a continuing debate about the effects of athletic participation on academic achievement. It has become a more relevant issue now that there are budget constraints in our nation’s schools. A study of the effects of athletic participation is needed to inform educators of the importance of athletics before they decide to retain or eliminate athletic programs. This research project includes a review of the literature regarding the effects of athletic participation on academic achievement. It also examines the gender differences related to athletic participation at the high school level. The results of past research indicate that athletic participation does have positive effects on academic achievement, as well as positive effects in other areas such as self-esteem, social status, and future success in education. There also appears to be many differences in the effects of athletic participation between males and females, particularly with regard to social status attributions