Children who participate in sports on regular basis are less likely to binge drink, a new study states.
For the study, researchers analysed 93 British male young offenders from a Local Youth Team, along with 53 non-offenders from area schools. Researchers noted that both groups had similarly low levels regarding socioeconomic status.
Researchers told the participants to be a part of a Youth Self Report in which their behavioral issues and competencies regarding involvement in organized sports would be studied.
The study findings showed that offenders were less likely to participate in an organized sport compared to the non-offenders. Researchers found that 70 percent of young offenders did not participate in any sport or extracurricular activity.
Young offenders in particular were at an even higher risk for increased drinking compared to other younger non-offenders. The study stated participating in organised sports at a young age could help youth not get involved in crime.
"Many young people benefit from participating in fun, structured activities outside of school. However, more vulnerable youngsters, such as young offenders, are less likely to participate even though their engagement in team sports could have positive impacts on their health-related behaviours, including the extent that they misuse alcohol. It is important that the most vulnerable in our community are able to access and enjoy sporting activities," lead study author, Britt Hallingberg, said in a press release.
The study was published in the journal 'Criminal Behavior and Mental Health.'
