Work

A Preliminary Investigation of a Conceptual Framework of Performance Enhancement Across Different Life Domains

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The use of chemically assisted performance enhancement (CAPE) substances has become a prominent trend in today's competitive societies. Although evidence suggests that CAPE behaviors across different life domains share common characteristics, no consistent theoretical framework exists for understanding the decision to engage in such behaviors. The aim of the present study was to examine a unified conceptualization of CAPE behaviors in four life domains. A total of 254 participants (64 competitive athletes, 40 recreational exercisers, 67 students, and 83 professionals) completed a survey assessing distal and proximal associations of CAPE behaviors (adapted for each domain). Path analysis used to evaluate the proposed model demonstrated an adequate fit. Results indicated that proximal associations of intentions (i.e., attitudes, norms, and situational temptation) were predicted by distal variables (i.e., social norms and cultural values). Intentions to engage in CAPE behaviors were predicted by attitudes and situational temptation. Goal commitment predicted only the mean of working, studying, or training. Finally, the mean of supplement use was predicted by norms. These findings provide preliminary evidence for a conceptual framework to understand CAPE behaviors across life domains, which may serve as a basis for designing intervention programs aimed at helping individuals make informed decisions about CAPE.

Source: Sports

DOI: 10.3390/sports13120434

Authors: Lida Skoufa, Despoina Ourda, Vassilis Barkoukis, Haralambos Tsorbatzoudis

Institutions: Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Frederick University

Language: English

Topic: Doping in Sports

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,172