Effect of a program of sport-recreational activities on aggression and prosocial values among youth living in social risk

Abstract

Purpose: This research is intended to analyze the effect of a sports and recreational activities program on aggression and prosocial values among youth living under conditions of social risk. Methods: The study included 28 young males (12.75 ± 1.40 years), from the Guararí community in Heredia, Costa Rica. An intervention consisting of 25 sessions of sports and recreational activities was carried out, and aggressive behaviors and prosocial values were recorded. Results: The results showed a decreasing tendency in verbal, physical, reactive and proactive aggression, and a linearly increasing tendency in prosocial values: respect, cooperation, and self-control. Conclusion: The data reported are in line with those found in the scientific literature. Sports and recreational activities have a positive impact through reducing aggressive behaviors and fostering prosocial values. Supporting training programs in which human movement contributes to the development of favorable behavioral changes can improve the life quality of adolescents and their insertion in society, leading to reduction in social risk indices.