Coping in High-Risk Snow-Sports: A Qualitative Exploration of Alpine Racing and Freestyle Athletes' Experiences. Issue 4 (19th May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kiemle-Gabbay, Laura; Lavallee, David
• Is Part Of: Journal of loss and trauma. Volume 22:Issue 4(2017)
• Page Start: 325
• Page End: 345
• Publication Date: 2017-05-19
• Subjects: Loss -- sports psychology -- stress -- trauma; Loss (Psychology) -- Periodicals; Adjustment (Psychology) -- Periodicals; Life change events -- Periodicals; Interpersonal relations -- Periodicals; 154.4
• DOI: 10.1080/15325024.2017.1284517
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1532-5024

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study examines how semi-elite student snow-sport athletes utilize process and trait coping strategies to combat risk-taking, potential loss and trauma, and other stressors integral to their sport participation. Factors influencing coping strategy preference are also explored. Semistructured interviews were used to explore 10 participants' experiences; the narratives were analyzed using thematic analysis. Five master themes emerged from the analysis: Challenges to Overcome; Taking Action; Changing Perspectives; Staying in Control; and Underlying Influences. The findings highlight how participants develop and utilize preferred coping strategies, although the unpredictable nature of snow-sports can result in situation-specific process coping. Findings are discussed in relation to the differences between racing and freestyle disciplines.