How does technology impact the relationship between Gen Alpha and sports in France?

Abstract

This study explores the evolving relationship between screen time and children's sports participation in France, set against the backdrop of broader historical and societal shifts. Originating in the late 19th century, organized physical activity emerged in Europe as a response to urbanization and the sedentary lifestyle brought by the Industrial Revolution. Physical education soon became a foundational element of child development, recognized for its contributions to physical, social, and emotional well-being. In recent years, however, the rise of digital technologies has transformed childhood experiences, with screen-based activities becoming dominant in education, recreation, and social interaction. This paper investigates how varying levels of screen exposure influence children's engagement in organized sports, unstructured outdoor play, and overall physical activity. Drawing on perspectives from both children and their parents, the study examines the impact of parental regulation, peer dynamics, and socio-economic factors. In the context of increased screen usage during the COVID-19 pandemic, the findings offer timely insights into how digital habits intersect with physical health. The research contributes to a better understanding of how to foster active, balanced lifestyles for children in a digital age, with implications for policymakers, educators, and families in France and beyond.