Psychological antecedents of youth versus adult participation: An examination based on the Sport Commitment Model

This study examined adult and youth Taekwondo (TKD) participants utilizing the Sport Commitment Model (SCM). In addition to direct effects predicting commitment, indirect effects of enjoyment as a mediating variable were examined. TKD participants (adult, n = 204; youth, n = 227) from four studios completed a questionnaire that included SCM variables (commitment, enjoyment, involvement alternatives, involvement opportunities, personal investments, social constraints, and social support). Structural equation modeling analysis compared age groups to assess similarities and differences. Similarities between age groups included involvement opportunities and personal investments being significant predictors of commitment while involvement alternatives were a significant detractor of commitment. Analysis of differences found that the social variables (i.e., social constraints and support) and enjoyment were significant predictors for youth only. This was the first study examining the SCM with both youth and adults participating in the same sport activity. Findings are discussed relative to theoretical and practical implications.