Doping Knowledge and correlates of potential doping behavior in kinesiology students

AESA Conference - 2021

Abstract

Introduction: Consumption of banned performance-enhancing substances and prohibited techniques, presents one of the most essential problems in modern sport [1]. Previous researches indicated alarmingly poor knowledge on doping issues in athletes [2]. The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge on this topic on students of Kinesiology, future coaches, and sport practitioners. Methods: Study included 130 kinesiology students (19.45±1.31 years) from the University in Split both female and male (53 female). Students were tested during the second semester of 2019/2020 academic year. Variables were collected through questions about socio-demographics, and doping-related factors. Descriptive statistics were calculated for age, sports experience, knowledge of doping, and subjective knowledge of doping. The Pearson correlation was used to assess the relationship between variables collected in the study. Results: Descriptive statistics is indicating low doping knowledge with an average score of 1.98±1.79: while 63% of students declared negative doping attitudes. Correlation analysis identified a statistically significant correlation between KD and potential doping behavior (PDB) (-0.32). Conclusion: Considering the fact that students of Kinesiology are future sports coaches, very low level of their doping knowledge and negative associations between KD and PDB, indicate a clear need for systematic education on doping among them.