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Published on: May 26, 2020
Early Athletic Identity Formation and Development: Perceptions of Elite Gaelic Athletes
Marion Geary1, Niamh Kitching2, Mark Campbell3
1Department of Sport and Early Childhood Studies, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, V94 EC5T Limerick, Ireland.
Background/Objectives:
Athletic identity (AI) is an important part of an elite athlete's self-concept and can positively impact sports performance, but over-emphasis can lead to potentially negative outcomes. Identity theory suggests that identity is shaped by individuals' roles, group affiliations, self-perceptions, and important changes in personal circumstances. Athlete transitions are changes that occur in an athletes' athletic and/or non-athletic circumstances, which can impact identity development. Using identity theory, this study aimed to explore the athletic transitions important in early AI formation and development in elite Gaelic athletes.
Methods:
Nine athletes were purposively sampled and participated in semi-structured interviews that were analysed using a six-step thematic analysis.
Results:
Findings indicate that the initiation, development, and mastery transitions in sport influence AI formation and align with the identity theory precepts of roles, groups, and persons in identity development. AI formation and development is individualised and shaped by perceived athlete competence, associated external validation, and the increased professionalism and personal commitment associated with higher levels of performance.
Conclusion:
We call for a greater emphasis to be placed on the development of multi-faceted identity profiles in elite Gaelic athletes.
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