In the realm of football today, two hot topics dominate the conversation: NFL players kneeling during the national anthem and the alarming rates of brain injuries among football players. Regardless of your stance on football, it’s hard to miss these discussions. While much of the focus has been on concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)—a serious brain condition linked to repeated head trauma—recent research is shedding light on issues that occur even before concussions happen.
A recent study published in Translational Psychiatry explores the effects of playing tackle football before the age of 12. A team of researchers from a Boston university delved into the experiences of 214 former football players, spanning various levels of competition from childhood to professional. Their findings are concerning for parents with kids interested in the sport.
The study revealed that those who started playing tackle football at a young age were three times more likely to experience clinical depression and twice as likely to suffer from issues like clinical apathy and behavioral problems. Many also reported difficulties with executive function and impulse control.
In a revealing interview with a local NPR station, Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a co-author of the study, expressed concern about the paradox of youth sports. “We go to great lengths to ensure their well-being in many areas of life,” she pointed out, “yet we send them onto the field, outfitted in helmets, encouraging them to hit their heads repeatedly—500 to 600 times a season!” It’s a point worth pondering.
Initially, I found the statistic staggering. Dr. Mitchell explained that these impacts, known as subconcussive hits, can occur without resulting in clinical concussions. While the effects may not be obvious at first, the potential long-term consequences are troubling. The brain is a complex organ, and most of its development occurs before age 12. Repeated head impacts can lead to lasting damage, even if they don’t cause immediate symptoms.
Dr. Mitchell noted that kids as young as five are participating in tackle football, often wearing oversized helmets that can make them look like bobbleheads. “There are over a million youth tackle football players in the U.S.,” she added, emphasizing the magnitude of the issue.
While this study is not definitive, it raises important questions about the impact of youth tackle football on behavior and health. We can’t shield our children from all sports and exercise—they offer valuable experiences and benefits. However, it’s crucial to minimize their exposure to repeated head impacts.
Dr. Mitchell advises, “Think about the frequency of those head hits. While we can’t completely remove our kids from athletics, we should aim to limit their repeated head trauma.” Given the emerging research on CTE and brain injuries, it’s wise to heed this guidance.
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In summary, while youth athletics provide numerous benefits, parents should be aware of the potential risks associated with sports like football, especially concerning brain health. The findings from recent research highlight the importance of addressing these risks early on.