Citation

Papailiou A, Coates JK, Plateau CR, Gilmore H, Barker JB. Adapt. Phys. Activ. Q. 2023; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, Human Kinetics Publishers)

DOI

10.1123/apaq.2022-0108

PMID

37160294

Abstract

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.

Language: en

Keywords

mental health; well-being; leadership; organizational culture