Psychology and sports initiation: an experience report of pratical activity carried out at the Associação Petrolinense de Atletismo

Abstract

This article reports a group intervention experience with children with ages between 8 and 10 years old who participated in the sports initiation class of the Associação Petrolinense de Atletismo (APA). The intervention was carried out with the aim of improving group cohesion and reducing excessive competitiveness, elements considered to have little benefit in initiation sports projects. Between 15 and 20 neurotypical and atypical children participated in this intervention, who were involved in activities planned to engage them, in a dynamic way, in the work of group aspects, aiming to improve the class environment. It was observed that the group underwent positive behavioral changes, however, subjective aspects that require a more targeted individual management were also identified. In summary, this group intervention was effective in improving the cohesion and collaboration of the children, and can be considered a viable strategy to improve the performance and well-being in children's sports projects.