Abuse in youth sports can take several forms, but all involve a power imbalance, usually the power of the coach or a parent over the athlete.
The following information should help you identify the different forms abuse or neglect can take, though it is not a complete list of behaviors that are considered abuse and neglect:
We urge you to discuss this information with your child in an age-appropriate way so that they are aware of what counts as inappropriate treatment.
Charlotte Wilinsky is an intern at MomsTEAM and a graduate student in the community social psychology master's program at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. Her research interests include child maltreatment, including abuse and neglect, and psychology and law. Before attending UMass Lowell, Charlotte earned her B.A. with honors in psychology at Amherst College, where she was a member of the women's tennis team.
Links:
[1] https://momsteam.com/health-safety/most-kids-have-suffered-abuse-in-sports
[2] https://momsteam.com/health-safety/myths-about-abuse-in-sports-Celia-Brackenridge
[3] https://momsteam.com/health-safety/emotional-injuries/general/greater-protection-of-children-from-abuse-in-sports-is-need