The Clinical Use of Sports Skills Tutoring with Grade School Boys Referred for School Behavioral Problems

Abstract

We outline an adjunctive treatment program for boys described by their teachers as unpopular or actively rejected by classmates. These boys exhibit inappropriate attention-seeking behavior and have a low level of skill in sports-related activities. The treatment program utilizes high school or college students as sports tutors. These tutors supervise drills and practice sessions designed to increase the referred child's competence in a sport. Once the child's skill level is adequate, teachers or coaches are contacted and asked to ensure that the child is placed in an important position the next time a game is played. This procedure helps rejected or unpopular boys gain the respect of their peers. Children, parents, and teachers report positive results from sports tutoring. Treated children are often described as more self-confident, happier, and less disruptive in class.