Survey Reveals Psychological Barriers Preventing Young Women in the Netherlands from Continuing Sports

Survey Reveals Psychological Barriers Preventing Young Women in the Netherlands from Continuing Sports

(IN BRIEF) A recent survey by ABN AMRO and Ajax reveals that nearly half of young women in the Netherlands have considered quitting sports, with psychological factors like insecurity and lack of enjoyment being key reasons. The survey emphasizes the importance of overcoming these barriers to help young women continue to benefit from the physical and mental advantages of sports. As part of their renewed partnership, ABN AMRO and Ajax are focusing on reducing these psychological obstacles and promoting equal opportunities for young women to engage in sports.

(PRESS RELEASE) AMSTERDAM, 22-Jan-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — A recent survey commissioned by ABN AMRO and Ajax reveals that nearly half of young women aged 18-25 in the Netherlands have considered quitting sports at some point, citing psychological factors like insecurity and lack of enjoyment as the leading causes. This represents a significant concern, as more than 300,000 young women are at risk of abandoning sports due to these challenges. Interestingly, the survey found that these psychological barriers are more commonly cited by young women than by their male counterparts.

Despite the well-known psychological benefits of sports, such as improved mental health and self-confidence, these factors continue to act as significant obstacles. The survey revealed that while time constraints remain a common reason for discontinuing sports, emotional and psychological reasons are even more prevalent. Almost a third of young women who participate in sports report no longer finding enjoyment or challenge in their activities. In fact, a majority of those who have stopped playing sports mention psychological factors—such as insecurity and a lack of fun—as key reasons. Negative emotions were also shown to influence participation, with half of all young women who have quit sports saying they avoid physical activity when feeling down, and nearly half of them indicating that these feelings directly prevent them from returning to sports.

Despite these challenges, the survey also highlights the positive impact that sports can have on mental well-being. A remarkable 79% of young women cited mental health benefits as a primary reason for engaging in sports—significantly higher than the 71% of men who shared this sentiment. In addition, one-third of women reported participating in sports to specifically enhance their psychological strength, compared to just 25% of men. The survey also found that 65% of women feel more self-confident through sports, and many experience a positive mood boost, helping them cope with negative emotions and frustrations.

Loïs Schenkel, coordinator of Ajax’s academy for young talent, emphasized the importance of addressing these psychological barriers: “This survey underscores how critical it is to understand and address the psychological challenges that young women face in staying engaged with sports. Together with ABN AMRO, we are committed to supporting young women as they build their self-confidence and overcome these obstacles. By eliminating barriers and reigniting the joy of sport, we can make a lasting impact on their lives.”

As part of their renewed partnership, ABN AMRO and Ajax are focusing on creating equal opportunities for women in sports. The bank, a longtime supporter of Ajax Women, has been their main sponsor for over a decade, and the partnership has now expanded its focus to include initiatives aimed at reducing barriers and promoting inclusivity for young women in sports. The new approach will emphasize the importance of female role models, with the goal of inspiring young women to engage in sports and continue participating, ensuring they benefit from both the psychological and physical rewards that come with it.

Sander Bestevaar, Head of Partnerships, Events & Foundations at ABN AMRO, explained, “Our sponsorship strategy is dedicated to promoting equal opportunities and ensuring a level playing field. Together with Ajax, we aim to eliminate the psychological barriers that prevent young women from participating in sports. By showcasing female role models and making sports more accessible, we hope to inspire and motivate young women to not only take up sports but continue their journey with them.”

About the survey

The survey includes responses from people actively engaged in sports, people who used to engage in sports and people who do not engage in sports. Questions concerned their current sporting habits, motivations for taking part in sports and – where applicable – their reasons for giving up. The central research questions behind the survey were: What are the most important barriers and motivations that young women experience around participating in and sticking with sports? What part do psychological aspects play, either as an obstacle or as motivation?

ABN AMRO and Ajax will use the insights gained to help reduce psychological obstacles and promote equal opportunities in sports, with the focus on teenage girls, to prevent lack of self-confidence from bothering them as they grow older.

Media Contact:

Jarco de Swart
Sr Press Officer Corporate Affairs, Finance, Legal and Sustainability
jarco.de.swart@nl.abnamro.com
+31 (0)20 6282160

SOURCE: ABN AMRO