Three Worlds: new directions in participant development in sport and physical activity

Abstract

The twin challenges of inactivity and the 2012 Olympics have tightened the focus in UK sport promotion. However, the twin track approach which treats these challenges as distinct concerns may limit the efficacy of interventions in either area. We propose that a continuum between participation, performance sport and elite achievement represents the most efficacious and logical focus for practitioners and researchers alike. We explore the genesis of this, and other problematic features through critical consideration of key theories. Finally, we propose a multidimensional approach to lifelong sport and activity participation as a theoretically justified basis for research and intervention design.

Keywords:

• Biopsychosocial approaches
• Development
• Elite sport
• Performance pathways
• Physical activity

Notes

1. Our use of the terms ‘Worlds’ to describe our framework explicitly reflects Karl Popper's cosmology in which Three Worlds are ontologically distinct, but necessarily and continually interacting (Popper, 1972).

2. One other potentially orthogonal categorisation is apparent, namely personal development, in which involvement is focused on ‘character building’. Involvement in martial arts, for example, is often typified by this focus. For the present purposes, however, we assume this to be subsumed within the PPW motive.

3. We are not suggesting, of course, that either of these models set out to provide a comprehensive account of participant development. However, we do maintain that this is the way they have been interpreted by some initiative funders and national sports groups.