Psychological Burnout
There are increased pressures in intense, adult-driven specialized training and competitions. The psychological risk of burnout, depression, and increased risk of injury may be a reason for withdrawal from sport in young athletes who took part in early specialized training. Talent development research on young athletes demonstrates that professionalized, adult-style practices are likely not optimal for fostering talent development.16 Specifically, research has indicated that adolescents need to enjoy the activities of their domain, and that intrinsic motivators are key to maintaining participation and goal achievement.16 Unfortunately, this is often not the case as the temptation of collegiate scholarships and stardom causes thousands of adolescent athletes to specialize in single sports and, subsequently, train year-round in sport-specific skills. While this has resulted in more highly skilled, sport-mature athletes at a younger age, it is isolating the child and has the potential to lead to increased stress and pressure and an overall feeling that the child lacks control or decision-making power over their lives.68 It is important to understand the implications of sport specialization at all levels of competition to better manage athletes in a way that is in their best interest to prevent burnout. In one such study on burnout, earlier specialization in swimming resulted in less time on the national team and earlier retirement compared with later specialization.
