Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

11-2008

Abstract

Interscholastic athletic directors have a tremendous responsibility in guiding athletic programs in today’s ever-changing society. Their decisions on the numerous issues confronting them reflect what they perceive as ethical (Conn & Gerdes, 1998). The purpose of the study was to investigate the perceptions of selected athletic directors in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex regarding the issues and factors related to the ethical conduct of personnel involved in the directing of interscholastic athletic programs. To accomplish this, the researcher collected qualitative data from eight athletic directors in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex who are responsible for at least three interscholastic athletic programs that compete in both basketball and football at the University Interscholastic League Conference 4A/5A. The researcher conducted structured interviews at each athletic director's office. Each interview was digitally audio recorded and transcribed soon after the interview. The researcher identified common perceptions of ethical issues and factors using a qualitative inductive analysis technique and triangulation. Eight major themes emerged from the analysis: (a) Media plays a major role in public perception of interscholastic athletics; (b) The pressure to win leads to unethical practices; (c) Observation is the primary evaluation instrument of monitoring athletic program’s ethical standards; (d) Little to extreme parental involvement; (e) Club teams are negatively impacting interscholastic athletics; (f) The University Interscholastic League is a very effective organization; (g) There is a shortage of qualified coaches; (h) Positive outlook on the ethics and integrity in interscholastic athletics.

Download

Share

COinS