A Qualitative Analysis of a Positive Elite Parasport Performance Culture

in Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly

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Athina Papailiou School of Sport, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, United Kingdom

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Janine K. Coates School of Sport, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, United Kingdom

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https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0021-9999
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Carolyn R. Plateau School of Sport, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, United Kingdom

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https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1256-1353
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Hugh Gilmore English Institute of Sport, The Manchester Institute of Health and Performance, Manchester, United Kingdom

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Jamie B. Barker School of Sport, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, United Kingdom

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https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8473-9261
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1123/apaq.2022-0108
Keywords:
organizational culture; leadership; well-being; mental health
First Published Online:
09 May 2023
In Print:
Ahead of Print
Page Range:
1–24
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Organizational culture in sports affects well-being, performance, and overall success. Although team culture has been explored within able-bodied teams, little is known about culture development within parasport. Using a descriptive case study approach, our study examined the culture development and experiences of an elite parasport team. Two semistructured individual telephone interviews were conducted with nine participants (athletes and staff), and one athlete-participant completed one interview. An inductive thematic analysis revealed two themes: approach to culture development and team culture components. Culture development was linked with facilitative leadership and important resources. This supported the team to create their shared values and mechanisms, including a behavioral framework, other artifacts (e.g., shared language and team motto), and a relaxed environment. These helped to maintain their agreed culture and benefited their well-being, progress, and team cohesion. Our results offer a starting point regarding research into the culture of elite parasport and have practical implications for managers, coaches, and psychologists.

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