Risk factors within doping behavior related to personality structure and social environment of the athletes

Summary

The main purpose of this project was to asses the athletes in Romania’s attitudes towards the use of substances that increase the performance and the possible correlations between such orientations and the type of personality, other psychological factors and their social influences.

Methodology

The research is a psychological and sociological nature, having an ascertaining character (survey - case study), for reviewing the stated hypothesis. The athletes subject to the study were aged 14 years – 30 years, namely the age when an athlete begins to have good results.

Results

Athletes' behavior is influenced by both their personality and surroundings, including colleagues, coaches, doctors, and parents. The complex of attitudes, shaped by social and environmental factors, plays a crucial role, especially concerning doping. Athletes are aware of anti-doping rules, but knowledge alone doesn't prevent doping behavior. Athletes not in top positions or facing mental stress might be more tempted to use prohibited substances, even with anti-doping information. Those striving for high-level results while dealing with tension, depression, or fatigue are more prone to doping than established athletes.

Significance for Clean Sport

This research project is a source of information, which leaded us to the elaboration of some previsions regarding the trends towards doping behavior. This is useful for all the people involved in sport activity, from coaches and the persons in the athletes’ entourage to the managers of the sport structures and the persons in charge with the decision making.