Which of the following is a social and psychological benefit of participating in team sports for children?

• A. Reduced opportunities for making friends
• B. Improved teamwork and communication skills
• C. Decreased self-esteem and increased social isolation
• D. Lower motivation and less sense of belonging

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the key terms in the question. 'Social benefits' refer to positive effects on a child's interactions and relationships with others, while 'psychological benefits' relate to improvements in mental and emotional well-being.
2. Step 2: Analyze each option by considering how participating in team sports might influence a child's social and psychological development.
3. Step 3: Recognize that 'Reduced opportunities for making friends' and 'Decreased self-esteem and increased social isolation' are negative outcomes, which contradict the idea of benefits.
4. Step 4: Note that 'Lower motivation and less sense of belonging' also describe negative effects, which are unlikely to be benefits of team sports.
5. Step 5: Identify that 'Improved teamwork and communication skills' are positive social and psychological outcomes, as team sports require cooperation and interaction, fostering these skills.