Hugo Paula Almeida da Rocha studies the influence of family on sports careers

The collaborative environment and access to resources and expertise have allowed me to identify and address gaps in my research, refining my approach and methodology.

In the field of sport, where pressure and stress can make the difference between success and failure, psychology emerges as a beacon of guidance and support for athletes. Within this context, research in sports psychology acquires special relevance, especially when it focuses on younger athletes.

Hugo Paula Almeida da Rocha is a professor and researcher at Colégio Pedro II, Campus Realengo II (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) specialized in this field and has dedicated his postdoctoral research to understanding the impact of the family on the careers of adolescent athletes. After his recent stay at the UAB Sports Research Institute (IRE-UAB), from March 2023 to March 2024, under the supervision of Dr. Miquel Torregrossa Álvarez and within the framework of the Research Group in Sports Psychology (GEPE-UAB), Hugo shares with us his motivations, discoveries, and future aspirations.

What is the main focus of your research and what motivated you to choose this specific topic?
The focus of my study is on the influence of the family on the careers of adolescent athletes. The choice of this topic arises from a personal conviction about the fundamental role that the family plays as a source of the stresses inherent to a sports career. Adolescence is a stage of vulnerability, and, in high-performance sports, it becomes more acute. I believe that understanding and enhancing the role of the family in this context can make a significant difference in the well-being and performance of young athletes.

How has your stay at the IRE-UAB influenced the research project?
The stay at the IRE-UAB has been enriching in multiple dimensions. On a personal level, I have experienced notable growth, especially in my communication skills. Interacting with researchers from various parts of the world has allowed me not only to improve my linguistic skills in Spanish and English, but also to expand my vision and understanding of the academic field. Professionally, the collaborative environment and access to resources and expertise have allowed me to identify and address gaps in my research, refining my approach and methodology.

What are your plans or aspirations for the future?
Looking ahead, my main goal is to start publishing the results of my research in international forums. This will not only contribute to my professional development but will also allow the findings of my work to benefit a wider audience. Additionally, I am planning the development of evidence-based programs that can be implemented to support adolescent athletes and their families. The goal is to create practical tools that strengthen the family environment, thus facilitating a healthier and more sustainable path in high-performance sport.

Hugo Paula Almeida da Rocha's research sits at the intersection of sports psychology and youth development, offering an essential perspective on how the family can positively influence the careers of adolescent athletes. His work not only promises to provide valuable academic insights, but also practical tools for athletes, families, and sports professionals. With researchers like Hugo, the future of sport is envisioned as a comprehensive and comprehensive ecosystem, focused not only on performance, but also on the comprehensive well-being of athletes.