Student-Athlete Drug Deterrence and Impact of Screening: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Date
2021-11-24
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Abstract
The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to determine if a statistically significant difference existed in perceived effectiveness of RSDT in deterring student-athlete drug use. Determining statistical differences in perception took place among student-athletes versus non-athletes as well as athletes who participate in Randomized Student-Athlete Drug Testing (RSDT) versus those who do not. The problem was whether RSDT decreases drug use among student-athletes. The study was necessary to provide feedback for school administrators uncertain on the decision of implementing RSDT. A gap in the research was present as student body perception of RSDT was limited. The gap was filled by revealing perception of RSDT effectiveness among four participant groups. This study revealed differences between four groups of participants among independent variables (sport participation and RSDT participation). Research Questions were answered by determining if statistically significant differences in perception exist among athletes vs non-athletes, and athlete RSDT vs athlete non-RSDT participants. The dependent variable consists of survey scores for 158 freshman health class student-athletes and non-athletes. The Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) and Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) created a framework for the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, along with a Mann-Whitney U Test to determine if statistically significant differences existed. Statistical differences were found among athletes and non-athletes in perceived effectiveness of RSDT in deterring drug use. No statistical differences were found among athlete RSDT participants and athlete non-RSDT participants. School districts seeking to deter student-athlete drug use might benefit from this research study.
Keywords: randomized, student, athlete, drug, testing