DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/F3JX-0A64
Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8834-3870
Defense Date
2020
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Education
First Advisor
Dr. Mary Hermann
Second Advisor
Dr. Donna Gibson
Third Advisor
Dr. Naomi Wheeler
Fourth Advisor
Dr. David Naff
Fifth Advisor
Dr. Jennifer Gerlach
Abstract
The purpose of the qualitative studywas to examine the lived experiences of Division I collegiate student-athletes who coped with a season-ending injury. The researcher used a hermeneutic phenomenological approach to understand how injury impacts identity development, mental health, and coping among student-athletes. As one of the only studies to examine all of these factors, the present study aimed to enhance counselor educators’ understanding of the specific needs of this population to provide developmentally appropriate support for injured student-athletes. The researcher collected data through 14 interviews with present or recently retired NCAA Division I student-athletes. Data analysis showcased diverse experiences with a season-ending injury that resulted in five themes: (a) Team Culture, (b) Emotional Response to Injury, (c) Impact on Identity Development, (d) Coping Resources Outside of the Team, and (e) Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic.Within the theme of the Team Culture, the subthemes include: (a) Coaches Foster Attitudes About Injury, (b) Desire for Relationship Continuity, (c) Teammates Enact Team Culture, and (d) Social Life Negatively Affected. The subthemes for the Emotional Response to Injury are (a) Grief, Loss, and Sadness; (b) Fear, Guilt, and Perfectionism; and (c) Aids and Barriers to Mental Health Counseling. For Impact on Identity Development, subthemes include: (a) Value Linked to Athletic Ability, (b) Recovery Process as a System to Make Meaning, and (c) Taking on New Roles on the Team. Coping Resources Outside of the Team include: (a) Athletic Trainers as Mental Health First Responders Post Injury and (b) Support Outside Athletics. The final theme of the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic is discussed, as it is a parallel to the experience of coping with a season ending injury. These themes are discussed in relation to other research on student-athletes, as well as implications for counselor education, counseling, athletic departments, and student affairs. Limitations and recommendations for future research are also discussed.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
12-3-2020