02 – Maximising the Environment

Encourage and Reward Improvement and Effort

Athletes are more likely to dope when they feel under pressure. This pressure can be traced to the sort of environment they are shaped in.

There are two types of environments (1) Performance-oriented and (2) Mastery-oriented.

  • Success of athlete externally influenced
  • Athletes compete against teammates and opposition
  • Can lead to athletic improvement
  • Linked to anxiety
  • May promote PED usage

  • Success depends on athlete
  • Teammates help each other
  • Leads to athletic improvement, well-being and satisfaction
  • Protects against PEDs temptations
  • Lasting impact

By encouraging and praising improvement in relation to previous performances rather than making comparisons to other athletes, we promote a mastery-oriented environment and thus athletic improvement, well-being, and protect against PEDs.

Coaches and parents are key facilitators in creating athletic environments.  If you place too much pressure on winning, and portray a lack of caring, your athletes will inevitably neglect their own well-being in favour of competing against both teammates, and the opposition.  This increases the temptation to dope.

Play the audio for tips on building a mastery climate

03 - Developing Relationships »