Competition is evident within all aspects of life, among all types of people, and throughout the recorded history of mankind. Sport as both an educational process and profession is no exception. In recent years, however, the concept of competition has been increasingly subjected to examination by both educators and participants. What is competition? Can competition be used as an educational tool? Is there more than one type of competition? Can competition be abused? Three distinct types of competition have been identified: direct, indirect, and cooperative. Also identified are the problems of inclusion-exclusion, zero-negative-positive sum game theory, and aggression reinforcement. Each form of competition possesses both positive and negative aspects; each can be used as an educational tool; and each is vulnerable to abuse. Failure to understand the various concepts of competition and their attendant problems may result in the perpetuation of programs premised on a competitive theory that alienates rather than attracts the population to be served. Continued misapplication of competitive theory may lead to further erosion of sport program support, whereas intelligent understanding and careful application may possibly result in structural changes but may also generate new and increased program support. (Author)