Journal of Physical Education and Sports Management

Examining the Relationships in Social Influence and Sports Adherence among Japanese Student Athletes
Goichi Hagiwara, Misaki Sumino, Hiroko Maeda, Shunichi Takeshita, Hirohisa Isogai

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between perception of group cohesion and social support and sports adherence behavior. Participants were 604 (500 male, 104 female) Japanese athletes affiliated with the sports science faculty of three universities in southern Japan. Participants completed questionnaires measuring group cohesion, social support, and intentions regarding sports persistence. The results demonstrated relationships among group cohesion, social supports, and sports adherence behavior in a sports team. Both group cohesion and social support are significant social factors for developing sports adherence behavior. The present findings might be important for better u understand Japanese student athletes. In conclusion, social influences (group cohesion and social support) might be important for sports adherence.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jpesm.v3n1a2