Why do Athletes Use Drugs?

... Why athletes use drugs? Doping is an issue which continues to challenge the sporting community. There are a number of factors that may contribute to an athlete misusing drugs. These factors can be related to the drug itself, the person or their environment. The basic desire to be successful and satisfy ego requirements is a major source of internal pressure. Problems such as self doubt, lack of confidence, nervousness, stress and depression are common to all athletes. The characteristics of self pressure are not exclusive to people in the sporting field. Competitors set the standards to which an athlete must perform. If an athlete believes that a competitor has obtained some kind of advantage, then the pressure to also have or use this advantage is significant, for example, a better designed golf club, a lighter running shoe or the use of steroids. Similar peer group pressure may come from team mates. A successful athlete

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