Gymnastics is a challenging sport that places substantial pressure on teenagers. Most psychologists agree that team sports and moderate exercise are beneficial for children, according to the textbook "Child Psychology." However, sports that consume all of a child's time and socially isolate them can have severe negative effects. Many child experts have expressed concern about the effects gymnastics has on teens' health and behavior. Gymnastics frequently requires a hefty time commitment. When this occurs, teens can suffer. Parents should encourage their teen to engage in gymnastics as a hobby a few hours each week, but discourage her from making gymnastics the center of her life.