The role of sport environment in shaping positive attitudes towards refugees and migrants

Authors

  • Eleftheria Morela Democritus University of Thrace

Keywords:

acculturation, sports, intergration, host society

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the role of sport as a means for promoting interaction between individuals and groups of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Additionally, it presents findings from three studies examining the role of sport environment in shaping the acculturation attitudes of host society toward incoming populations. The studies were quantitative, cross-sectional, and focused on young Greek athletes competing in individual and team sports. Overall, the purpose of the three studies was to examine the role of sport environment created by the coach and coach-promoted behavior in forming attitudes toward the acculturation of incoming groups. Young Greek athletes completed questionnaires assessing their attitudes toward migrant and refugees’ acculturation and questionnaires regarding the sport environment. Based on the results, empowering motivational environments, emphasizing mastery, and support for athletes’ basic psychological needs, combined with coach-promoted prosocial behaviors, can contribute to shaping positive acculturation attitudes towards incoming populations, thus, promoting integration and multiculturalism.

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Published

2025-06-17

How to Cite

Μορέλα Ε. (2025). The role of sport environment in shaping positive attitudes towards refugees and migrants. Exercise and Society, 1, 648–660. Retrieved from https://ojs.staff.duth.gr/index.php/ExSoc/article/view/580

Issue

Section

PART III: SCIENTIFIC SELECTIONS BY THE FACULTY MEMBERS OF THE D.P.E.S.S.–D.U.ThH