The Experience of NCAA Division 1 Athletes Diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Subsequently Prescribed a Stimulant Medication
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Authors
Cushing, Alexander D.
Issue Date
2019
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
"Stimulants","NCAA","Student-Athletes","Qualitative Research","Content Analysis"
Alternative Title
Abstract
Interest in examining student-athlete experience has recently increased (Gayles, 2009). Many studies have explored ADHD stimulant medication's impact on performance, performance enhancement, drug use, learning disorders, etc. However, there is no substantial research in support of the Division 1 NCAA athlete experience and ADHD. The purpose of this study was to examine the psychological impact of the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD among NCAA Division 1 athletes. A sample of 8 current and former student-athletes (aged 20-32) in various sports were interviewed using qualitative methodology and content analysis. This involved a semi-structured interview, coding, and identifying themes consistent across the participants' experiences. The findings of this study highlight the challenges associated with the pressure of excelling in both sports and academics, as well as increasing knowledge of the coping mechanisms associated with such a diagnosis. These findings can be interpreted as a starting point toward increasing understanding of the phenomenon and direction for future research.