Peer-Reviewed Journal Details
Mandatory Fields
King, L;Cullen, SJ;McArdle, J;McGoldrick, A;Pugh, J;Warrington, G;Losty, C
2021
June
The Sport Psychologist
Stressors Experienced by Professional Jockeys
Published
1 ()
Optional Fields
SPORT PERFORMERS ELITE SPORT WEIGHT HEALTH IMPACT STRATEGIES ATTITUDES SYMPTOMS
35
142
154
The purpose of this study was to explore the sources of stress reported by professional jockeys. In total, 15 jockeys participated in semistructured interviews that included apprentice, conditional, and senior jockeys. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data that included inductive and deductive approaches. Jockeys reported a wide range of stress sources. Four core themes were identified and categorized as competitive (current form or being in a slump, pressure, horse, injury, opponents, tactical, and race day), racing industry (weight, workload, travel demands, injury concerns, suspension, and facilities), interpersonal (trainer, other jockeys, expectations of others, support networks, and communication), and career stressors (career uncertainty, career opportunities, and transitions). The findings highlight unique stressors to the jockey population, as well as stressors common with other athlete groups. Practical applied recommendations and future research directions are provided.
CHAMPAIGN
0888-4781
10.1123/tsp.2020-0128
Grant Details