Psychological and social factors of risk and protection with regard to doping

Summary

This research focused on psychosocial protective factors with regard to doping, using methods different from those of the questionnaire and some of these methodological biases we will bring new elements. In order to better understand the dynamics of doping behaviors (initiation, experience, representation, stopping) we must use all available resources: life stories, telephone interviews (Parquet, 1998).

Methodology

This research uses a heuristic approach. Its aim is to shed light on the important and original material constituted by telephone interviews with athletes: the personal, environmental and social elements that play a protective role with respect to doping. The study starts from the general hypothesis that the qualitative and quantitative analysis of this group of athletes calling the anonymous and free telephone helpline will bring to light the meaning of the consumption behavior, the representations, the attitudes of the actors that will constitute important elements of support for future research and prevention actions.

Results

The protective factors most represented in the results are in order of priority, “concern for health”, “respect for the law” and “the existence of environmental control”. Sports ethics as well as social law and legal remain at the center of the athlete's concerns

Significance for Clean Sport

This research made it possible to distinguish different dynamics around the theme of doping and to guide prevention actions based on experience and representations of the sporting population.

Related Publications

Qualitative and Hierarchical Analysis of Protective Factors against Illicit Use of Doping Substances in Athletes Calling a National Anti-Doping Phone-Help Service

Final report only available in French