ABSTRACT
Sport provides an opportunity for children, young people, and adults alike to develop physically, mentally, and socially. It provides an avenue through which friendships can be developed, skills can be learnt, and, perhaps most importantly, fun and enjoyment can be had. However, such positive outcomes are not guaranteed and, unfortunately, for some people they are never realised. Rather, for some, involvement in sport can actually threaten their wellbeing. The extent to which those involved in sport have an opportunity to gain the benefits associated with sport, while minimising any threats to wellbeing, is largely dependent upon the support, guidance, and involvement of those around them, particularly their parents and family. Through this chapter, we first provide a narrative based on the applied experiences of a Senior Sport Psychologist, who will illustrate her experiences of working alongside parents of elite athletes to maximise health, wellbeing, and performance. A critical overview of the role parents and broader social support networks play in enhancing or challenging individual’s wellbeing is provided, before considering how parental/familial involvement can directly and indirectly impact upon athlete wellbeing.
