Why do athletes say NO! to doping: Exploring reasons across sport, age, ethnicity and experience

Summary
 
Most research to date focused on the reasons for which athletes turn to doping. However, the investigators identified a gap in literature that centres around the rationale for choosing not to dope in the first place. The study investigates the factors that influence the athletes’ decision not to dope, shifting attention from the perspective that supposes an interest in doping to one that accentuates the athletes’ agency and morality. It identifies the ethical standards and environment as the most influential factors in the athletes’ decision-making process. 

Methodology

The study follows a cross-sectional mixed methods research design. In the first stage of research, the investigators applied a phenomenological approach and then collected the data from twenty-five (25) athletes and ten (10) coaches through semi-structured interviews. The pieces of information were then analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. In the second stage of the study, the researchers surveyed one hundred and one (101) athletes using a questionnaire based on the qualitative findings of the previous stage.

Results

The researchers found that the main reasons for athletes not to dope were moral and based on their own ethical standards. The athletes’ training environment is also a factor that plays an important protective role in preventing doping. It is complemented by the influence of family and coaches, which underscores the importance of values-based education, and of targeting athlete support personnel. 

Significance for Clean Sport

The findings have clarified the underexplored area of research concentrated on the determinants influencing the athletes’ decision not to dope. They diverge from the perspective centred around preventing doping and presuming an interest in doping a priori. Given that the athletes’ decision not to dope was not based on testing and education, the findings could inform anti-doping educational initiatives through the lens that shifts the priority from sanctions and testing to investigating the possibility of developing a more convivial approach that highlights the athletes’ agency and decision-making capability.

Related Publications

Why athletes say no to doping: A qualitative exploration of the reasons underpinning athletes’ decision not to dope