Role Models

The influence that role models have on children and impressionable individuals should not be underestimated, and whether parents like it or not they themselves will be a role model, not just their own children but for the children of others as well. It is for that reason that parents should behave in an acceptable manner and set a good example, as children imitate the behaviour they observe. Although parents are role models, they are not the only role model a child can have, however they can influence who the child looks up to. This combination of the parent’s position and the influence they can exert are the main factors why they should fully understand the importance of a role model and what part that individual can play within a child’s development and their life.

This article will seek to explain why it is good for a child to have a role model or an individual to ‘hero worship’, as long as they choose the appropriate individual. However it must be realised that, some individuals may not openly admit to having a role model (although reality is that they will have someone they look up to), while others will regularly change theirs and occasionally there will be a few that may develop an unhealthy addiction to that individual. Therefore, parents should be aware of these and adapt their behaviour appropriately.

Direction: If the child has someone they look up to and someone they want to emulate then they have something they want to become. This will then provide their life with direction and allow them to create a path they wish to follow. Even if the fascination with this person is only for a short period, before moving onto another individual, they have something to aim for. Often many will not reach the same heights as their role model, but at least they are looking to achieve.

Inspiration: There may be times when the child is going through a tough or traumatic experience. It is in these times that they will look for inspiration to help them cope and aid recovery. They may then pick an individual who has gone through the same situation or ordeal to be their role model. This will then provide them with the hope and belief they can get through it and become a stronger person.

Examples: Role models can be used to highlight both acceptable and unacceptable behaviour. Not everyone is perfect and they will make mistakes. Children, especially young ones, can learn lessons of right and wrong from the mistakes and actions of their hero’s. For example a young player may watch their hero show dissent to the referee, persistently cheat or become addicted to drugs, all of which should be pointed out to them as unacceptable and bad behaviour.

Who are Role Models?

Parents are role models. Like it or not. Therefore, there behaviour should reflect this. They should not be seen to condone foul play or misconduct, as these messages are transferred to the child, who will then adopt the same beliefs.

The majority of the time their role models are famous individuals who have achieved something that the child wishes to. It could be their favourite player or coach.

In some instances the child may idolise someone closer to home. This could be a teacher, sibling, coach or older individual. Therefore, everyone in that child’s life should be aware that they are a role model to them and behave accordingly.

How to Help Choose a Role Model

Choose someone who gives off the right messages and signals. They should have acceptable moral values and beliefs. They should set a standard that highlights the acceptable behaviour.

Everyone makes mistakes (within reason) as nobody is perfect but showing remorse and overcoming their adversities are the signs of a role model. Discourage a child from worshipping anyone who does not show remorse, persistently offends or encourages others to follow in their footprints.

Do not just base it on their looks or appearance. Hero worshipping can become an addiction and then individuals begin to believe everything that individual says, regardless whether they are right or wrong. Therefore the role model should be chosen for the right reasons in the first place.

Encourage the child to aim high. Anyone can be a role model, and if they set a good example then there are no problems. But children will seek to emulate that person so why not emulate someone who has achieved great heights. They can have more than one role model, so aim high. ‘Perfection is not obtainable, but if you aim for perfection you will achieve excellence’ – Vince Lombardi

A Good Role Model will NOT

• Abuse the referee, players or opposition.
• Condone foul play.
• Fight.
• Intentionally injury someone.
• Take drugs.
• Cheat.
• Swear

The role of a role model is crucial therefore the parent should not only provide themselves as a good one to follow but also help the child to choose one for themselves.