The causes of sports burnout in Taiwanese adolescent track and field athletes and its impact on future education and sports school pathway choices

Abstract

This study explores the causes of sports burnout in Taiwanese adolescent track and field athletes and the factors influencing their decision not to pursue sports-oriented high schools. The participants were eight track and field graduates from junior high schools in New Taipei City and Taichung City. Through in-depth interviews, the study identified how athletic experiences, psychological and academic pressures, relationships with coaches and peers, and family support influenced athletes' performance and academic decisions. The main causes of burnout were physical factors (intense training and injuries), psychological factors (poor competition results, academic pressure, and monotonous training), and environmental factors (lack of support from coaches and peers). Conflicts between academic demands and family expectations also played a role in athletes’ career decisions. The study suggests improving support systems, balancing training and academics, and strengthening family and school support to reduce burnout and enhance athletes’ development.