Citation

Bringer JD, Brackenridge CH, Johnston LH. J. Sex. Aggress. 2002; 8(2): 83-98.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/13552600208413341

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The sporting culture, with omnipotent coaches, fierce competition for recognition and funding, and 'win at all costs' ethos, creates an environment conducive to sexual exploitation of athletes. Recent increased public awareness and the development of child protection policies in sport have led to the questioning of previously accepted coach-athlete relationships. This study is an exploratory investigation into male swimming coaches' perceptions of appropriateness of coach-athlete sexual relationships. Sexual relationships with athletes under the age of 16 were unanimously considered totally inappropriate. With regard to sexual relationships with athletes above the age of consent, opinions ranged from 'totally inappropriate' to 'it's a question of civil liberties.' These results are discussed in relation to how coaches have adapted their own behaviours in the face of public scrutiny but are still reluctant to restrict the rights of their fellow coaches.