Question by Janet:
Given the growing concern about sports-related concussions, what do you think schools should be doing? abolish or severely reduce varsity teams? sponsor only “safe” sports? Is there research on how concussions may interfere with learning and academic results?
Answer by Dr. Robert Sylwester:
I don’t know how to respond responsibly to your question, except that I share what I think are your concerns. Our culture seems obsessed with violent sports (and perhaps making sports that aren’t necessarily violent into becoming violent). To be frank, as much as I enjoy watching sports, I’m pleased that none of our grandchildren have gotten into any of the more violent school-level sports.
I don’t know how to respond responsibly to your question, except that I share what I think are your concerns. Our culture seems obsessed with violent sports (and perhaps making sports that aren’t necessarily violent into becoming violent). To be frank, as much as I enjoy watching sports, I’m pleased that none of our grandchildren have gotten into any of the more violent school-level sports.
I expect that changes will occur, and they’e overdue. Don’t mess with a brain!
> Read full transcript of Q&A with Prof. Sylwester
> Read full Q&A series
> Read The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness
