Sport International Relations
Sara Keshkar; Ali Afsay; Hojjat Kazemini
Abstract
The purpose of the current research is to understand the challenges of interpersonal communication etiquette in international sports events and to provide optimal solutions in the post-Corona era. This study was conducted using qualitative phenomenological research methods, which are exploratory in nature. ...
Read More
The purpose of the current research is to understand the challenges of interpersonal communication etiquette in international sports events and to provide optimal solutions in the post-Corona era. This study was conducted using qualitative phenomenological research methods, which are exploratory in nature. The statistical population for the field interviews included national team athletes, national team coaches, sports management specialists, sports psychology experts, sports sociologists, and viral disease specialists, all targeted for interviews. A total of 56 qualitative interviews were conducted until theoretical saturation was achieved. The coding and analysis of the interviews were performed using MaxQDA Pro software.
The results indicated that the challenges of interpersonal communication etiquette in international sports events include cultural-social, value-based, educational, communication, and health-related challenges. Furthermore, the findings revealed 19 communication models among athletes, selected for key reasons such as respectful behavior, hygiene, attention to cultural values, fostering friendship, authenticity of behavior, transmission of Olympic values, and optimal performance. Additionally, desirable solutions for improving interpersonal communication etiquette in international sports events were identified, including modeling, educational initiatives, managerial approaches, and media engagement. To provide optimal solutions, this research also suggests adopting cultural practices such as placing hands on the chest and maintaining a proper distance instead of shaking hands.