Social cognitive predictors of doping intentions: a multi-national study

Objectives Doping is among the most important threats to the image of sport. In order to better understand the psychological mechanisms associated with doping, several theoretical approaches have been tested. One of the most prominent is Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory, which posits that moral disengagement and self-regulatory efficacy are among the most influential predictors of decision making towards anti-social and unethical behaviors.

The present study aimed to investigate whether moral identity predicts doping intentions directly and indirectly via moral disengagement and self-regulatory efficacy, in Greek, British and Italian athletes. Design / Background / Key Points Cross-sectional Methods / Conclusions A total of 1536 athletes were recruited (n = 489 in Greece, n = 481 in UK, n = 566 in Italy). The mean age of the participants was 19.83 (Mage= 17.80 in Greece, Mage = 20.37 in UK, Mage = 20.90 in Italy). Participants completed a survey comprising measures of moral identity, moral disengagement, self-regulatory efficacy and doping intentions.

Results / Conclusions Structural equation modelling was used to test the proposed model and examine whether the model is invariant across the three countries. The results of the analyses indicated that moral disengagement and self-regulatory efficacy mediated the effect of moral identity on doping likelihood. The model was partially invariant across the three countries. Conclusions The findings of the study provide valuable information on the role of social cognitive constructs in the prediction of doping likelihood. Practical implications for coaches and stakeholders are presented.