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Writer's pictureFrank Lawrence Jr.

Toxic Sport Culture Hurts Performance and Mental Well-being



Competitive sports often glorify the stoic, relentless, and fearless athlete, emphasizing a "win at all costs" mentality. However, this toxic sport culture neglects the emotional well-being of athletes, creating an environment where feelings are suppressed and mental health is compromised. As highlighted in the TEDx talk by Hillary Cauthen, this focus on winning can be detrimental to young athletes who are taught to mask their emotions and not show weakness. In sports, the pressure performance environment exacerbates these issues, with 30% of athletes reporting psychological symptoms daily, yet only a small percentage seeking help.


Cauthen calls for a re-examination of this culture, emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture of care and psychological safety in sports. By shifting away from a toxic sports culture and embracing a culture of care, we can help athletes achieve success through maintaining their wellbeing.

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