Athletic Training Practice Exam

Which type of educational program is effective in deterring anabolic-steroid abuse among adolescent athletes?

1. Coeducational sport-centered programs

2. Sex-specific, sport-centered programs

3. Community-based programs

4. Gender-focused educational programs

The correct answer is: Sex-specific, sport-centered programs

The effectiveness of sex-specific, sport-centered programs in deterring anabolic steroid abuse among adolescent athletes can be attributed to their tailored approach. By focusing specifically on the unique experiences, pressures, and motivations of males and females in their respective sports, these programs can address the distinct factors that contribute to steroid use in different genders. This specificity allows educators to create messages and interventions that resonate more profoundly with the targeted audience. For example, male athletes may face different social pressures regarding performance-enhancing drug use compared to female athletes, and a program that acknowledges and speaks directly to these differences is likely to be more impactful. Additionally, sport-centered programs help in contextualizing the conversation around drug use within the framework of the athletes’ specific sports, making it more relevant to their experiences and challenges. Engaging athletes in discussions about health, performance, and the ethical implications of steroid use in the context of their specific sports can create a strong deterrent against such practices. In contrast, more generalized approaches may lack the focused engagement necessary to effectively reach adolescents, resulting in lower impact. Programs that do not consider the sex or sport of the participants may miss critical motivational factors, thereby reducing their effectiveness in reducing anabolic steroid abuse.