A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF THE USE OF PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT TECHNIQUES AMONG HIGH SENSATION SEEKERS IN SPORT
No Thumbnail Available
Authors
Silva, Kathy
Issue Date
1998
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between high sensation seekers in sport and their use of performance enhancement techniques. For the purpose of this study, the researcher explored the question: Do high sensation seekers inherently use performance enhancement techniques in sport. A qualitative approach was used with four subjects. Subjects were identified as high sensation seekers in sport per Dr. Marvin Zuckerman's Sensation Seeking Scale V, Thrill and Adventure Seeking (TAS) subscale. In depth interviews were conducted. Findings revealed that the subjects in this study used performance enhancement techniques with very little or no training. This suggests an inherent use of performance enhancement techniques among high sensation seekers in sport. Furthermore, the significance of "fear" in the sensation seekers' sport, was acknowledged. The subjects in this study perceived fear as a positive force, prompting them to manage anxiety and focus in the presence of danger, which ultimately enhanced performance Future research should entertain the same research question presented in this study. However, a thorough review of literature pertaining to fear should be incorporated into the study, along with a larger number of subjects.