LOGOTHERAPY AND SPORTS: PATHS TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF MEANING IN LIFE DURING ADOLESCENCE

Abstract

This article analyzes, in light of Viktor Frankl's logotherapy, how participation in sports can foster the discovery of meaning in life during adolescence. A narrative literature review was conducted, based on studies published between 1968 and 2025, addressing adolescence, sports, meaning in life, logotherapy, and mental health. The results show that the search for meaning is fundamental to the healthy development of adolescents and is related to identity, self-esteem, social bonds, and resilience. Sport stands out as a space for meaningful experiences and the strengthening of values, acting as a protective factor for mental health. However, it is emphasized that the benefits depend on the quality of the experiences and the sociocultural context. It is concluded that the integration of logotherapy and sport can support educational strategies and public policies aimed at promoting the encounter with meaning in life and the well-being of adolescents.