Understanding Doping Prevalence Through Perception
Author Information
Author(s): Petróczi Andrea, Mazanov Jason, Nepusz Tamás, Backhouse Susan H, Naughton Declan P
Primary Institution: Kingston University
Hypothesis
It is hypothesised that athletes who use PEDs overestimate prevalence of doping in their sport and in sport more broadly, compared to non-users.
Conclusion
The study suggests that the False Consensus Effect can provide a more reliable estimate of doping prevalence among athletes.
Supporting Evidence
- Users estimated doping prevalence at 35.11% while non-users estimated it at 15.34%.
- The study provides preliminary evidence supporting the False Consensus Effect in relation to doping.
- The method may enhance understanding of health-compromising behaviors for policymakers.
Takeaway
The study found that athletes who use performance-enhancing drugs think more people use them than actually do, which can help understand drug use in sports.
Methodology
Data were collected using a web-based anonymous questionnaire among competitive UK student-athletes, comparing self-reported doping use and estimates of others' use.
Potential Biases
The reliance on self-reports for categorizing users and non-users may introduce bias.
Limitations
Self-reported data may be subject to social desirability bias, and the sample may not represent all athletes.
Participant Demographics
The sample consisted of 46 female and 78 male athletes with a mean age of 21.47 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.004
Confidence Interval
95%CI = 1.365, 31.186
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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