ATHLETES AS A ROLE-MODELS FOR ADOLESCENCE

Specifically, the first section of this work is concerned with theoretical concerns about the significance of role models and idols in general, and for young people specifically. Following that, the findings of existing research are discussed. According to studies, the vast majority of idols, particularly sports heroes, are males, and it is boys who are most enamored with sports players. In the second section of the paper, we report the results of a pilot research in which we questioned both female and male students about their role models. A significant proportion of males identified sports heroes or action stars, whom they admired for their power, aggressiveness, and ability to get things done in a fast and efficient manner. Contrary to this, for the females who were questioned, athletes did not serve as role models in their lives. They were envious of the movie and music industry s stars and leading ladies. Ending with a discussion on the possible consequences of these orientations is followed by the issue of what type of solutions teaching may provide in this situation.