Psychometric properties of the Performance Enhancement Attitude Scale and Analysis of Doping Perceptions in Moroccan Athletes

Abstract

This study aims to validate the Performance Enhancement Attitude Scale (PEAS) and analyze the attitudes and perceptions of 200 Moroccan athletes toward doping, considering sociodemographic factors (age, gender, educational level) and sports experience (measured in years of practice) through this instrument. Factorial analysis highlights three significant dimensions of doping perceptions: recreational use, social pressure to dope, and media influence, with 11 items. Consequently, 65% of male athletes and 55% of participants under 25 showed neutrality or indecision toward doping, compared to only 30% of those with over 10 years of experience. Young athletes or those with less than five years of practice exhibit a high neutrality score (70%) on the doping attitude scale, reflecting increased vulnerability to external influences. In comparison, 45% of athletes with more extensive experience express more defined positions, associating doping with negative values such as cheating or ethical breaches. These findings underscore the importance of developing targeted educational strategies to address this issue. Groups exhibiting more neutral or undecided attitudes may benefit from awareness programs that reinforce moral values and help them resist social and media pressures surrounding doping in sports.