PARENTAL ROLE IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT: GRASSROOTS OF SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY

This study determined the extent of parental involvement and its relationship to the physical education development of student-athletes in terms of physical performance skills and mental well-being. Conducted at Zamboanga del Sur National High School and J.H. Cerilles State College during the Academic Year 2025–2026, the research involved 50 athlete-respondents engaged in basketball, volleyball, and arnis, paired with 50 corresponding parent-respondents. Using a quantitative-correlational design, data were gathered through survey questionnaires and actual physical assessments. Statistical treatments such as Mean, Standard Deviation, Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, and Kruskal-Wallis Test were employed to analyze profiles, levels of involvement, and significant relationships and differences. Results revealed that parents exhibited a high extent of involvement in emotional, informational, and instrumental support (Mean = 4.52). Correspondingly, athletes demonstrated competent to proficient levels in physical skills (Mean = 3.47) and positive mental well-being characterized by high motivation and resilience (Mean = 4.38). Inferential analysis confirmed a significant positive relationship (p < 0.05) between parental involvement and holistic development, proving that supportive parenting directly enhances physical competence and psychological strength. Significant variations were also observed across sports disciplines and demographic profiles. The study concludes that parents are vital partners in the grassroots development of sports psychology. An intervention program and informational guide are proposed to strengthen parental roles and sustain positive youth sports engagement.