Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Ph.D. Student of Sports Management, Borujerd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Borujerd, Iran
2 Department of Sports Management, Borujerd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Borujerd, Iran
3 Department of Physical Education, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
The aim of this research was to design a model for managing the ethical behavior of prominent athletes in cyberspace. The study employed a qualitative approach with thematic analysis. Media specialists, academic staff familiar with the research topic, coaches, and renowned athletes active in cyberspace were selected using purposive sampling, resulting in 12 interviews until theoretical saturation was achieved. To ensure reliability, an additional three interviews were conducted, totaling 15 participants. The research instrument included exploratory (semi-structured) interviews. The validity of the instrument was evaluated and confirmed based on sample credibility, expert opinions, and inter-rater agreement. The thematic analysis method proposed by Attride-Stirling (2001) was used to analyze the findings. MaxQDA Pro software was utilized for interview analysis, and iMindMap version 10 was used for mapping the thematic network. The results of the comprehensive thematic analysis and thematic network mapping, derived from expert opinions and theoretical studies, indicated that managing the ethical behavior of athletes and prominent sports figures requires measures in various areas such as planning, coordination and organization, monitoring and evaluation, and economic (budgeting). The findings of this research can contribute to the development and implementation of effective strategies for managing the ethical behavior of prominent athletes in cyberspace.
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