Stress, coping and anxiety in parents of children in extreme sports: A qualitative study

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore how parents whose children participate in extreme sports coped with the stress associated with their child's participation in the extreme sport of motorcycle racing. Data were collected through 15 structured in-depth interviews with parents who actively support their children involved in this sport. Interview items explored parental stress and coping strategies. Results suggest that parents of children in motorcycle racing often experience substantial stress and anxiety associated with watching their child engage in this sport, yet observing their child's passion toward racing appeared to outweigh many of the potential dangers. All respondents expressed complete confidence in their own child's skills and abilities in a motorcycle race; however, these same respondents also acknowledged the fear of reckless negligence of other youth riders which could jeopardize the health and sporting career of their own child. Implications for social work practice and suggestions for future research are discussed.