Objective To evaluate the role of parental influence on youth SSS and to characterize parental perceptions of SSS. Data sources Embase.com, Ovid-Medline All, CINAHL Plus, APA PsycInfo, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed Central (PMC) since database inception. Study selection Primary studies that assessed reasons for youth SSS that included parental influence as a factor and/or studies that investigated the nature or extent of parental influence on SSS were included. Data extraction A single author extracted data, focusing on definitions and measures of SSS and parental influence, findings concerning primary reasons for SSS, any quantitative or qualitative findings on the extent of parental influence on SSS, and findings concerning various associations between parental influence, SSS, and other themes. Data synthesis 61 articles were assessed in total, with 23 meeting criteria for inclusion. Parental influence plays a limited direct role in SSS, accounting for approximately 10.6% of the overall influence. Athlete self-influence or self-enjoyment of sport was found to be the predominant reason to pursue SSS, accounting for 82.3% of the overall influence. However, parents indirectly influence SSS by modulating athlete motivation and providing financial, practical, and emotional support. Conclusions Athlete self-motivation primarily drives SSS directly, while parents indirectly influence SSS by modulating athlete self-motivation and offering financial, practical, and emotional support. Misconceptions persist regarding parental perceptions of SSS-related injury risks, scholarship attainment, and athletic development. Communication with parents regarding the risks associated with SSS and their role in monitoring their children`s sports participation is crucial for mitigating adverse outcomes in youth athletes.
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