Some people believe that professional athletes serve as positive role models for young people while others argue that their behaviour both on and off the field can have a negative influence. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
Professional athletes are recognised as influential figures in all nations. Many people are of the perception that these individuals can be positive role models to the younger generations while many argue it to be negative. Both views are supported by legitimate arguments, I believe that adults can guide the youngsters to absorb only the positive attributes of their favourite sportspersons.
Elite players of different games can positively influence their young fans to have many successful qualities in their life. From eating healthy and daily workouts to displaying sheer determination and resilience in their efforts, such athletes play exemplary roles for the later generations. Children who consider professional sportspersons as their role models would be motivated to take up healthy habits and persevere to attain their dreams. For example, when the famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo removed a soft drink bottle from an interview table a few years back, sales of the company plunged in the subsequent days as thousands quit its consumption.
However, it is undeniable that there are many instances when professional athletes were criticized for their inappropriate conducts. These include abusing other players, the usage of obscene words or major offenses including substance abuse. Youngsters tend to blindly copy these behaviours and hence, fall into such bad influences. This is particularly true given that rage and aggressions among the youth while playing is prevalent these days. Therefore, not all professional players are worthy to be considered as a role model due to their inexpedient behaviours.
In conclusion, it is perceived by many people that the accomplished sportspersons have a positive impact on the youngsters while others contend against it. Even though both sides are backed by valid supporting claims, in my opinion, parents can oversee such influences and guide them constructively.