CLASS DESCRIPTION
Pressure is a constant presence in parks, recreation, sports, and youth programming—but not all pressure is created equal. Healthy vs. Harmful Pressure examines how expectations, competition, and performance demands can either support growth and resilience or contribute to stress, burnout, and disengagement.
Led by psychologist Dr. Chris Thurber, this course helps parks and recreation professionals, educators, and program leaders understand the critical difference between pressure that motivates and pressure that harms. Participants will learn how pressure impacts performance and well-being, how to recognize when it becomes counterproductive, and how to intentionally create environments that promote confidence, resilience, and long-term engagement.
Learning Objectives
After completing this course, participants will be able to:
- Differentiate between healthy pressure that supports growth and harmful pressure that contributes to stress or burnout.
- Identify common sources of pressure in parks, recreation, sports, and youth program settings.
- Recognize behavioral and emotional signs that pressure has become harmful.
- Apply practical strategies to reduce unhealthy stress while maintaining appropriate expectations and standards.
- Design program environments that foster resilience, confidence, and sustained participation.
After successfully passing the Knowledge Check, participants will receive a completion certificate and follow-up email. The PRB+ University team is actively working to create partnerships with CEU-accrediting agencies and administrators. Please check back regularly for updates about new CEU partners, approved courses, and submission details: https://www.prbplus.com/ceus/.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Dr. Chris Thurber, a thought leader in positive youth development, provides unforgettable keynotes and practical staff training workshops to youth programs around the world.