Moral behaviour in sport: a critical review of the literature

Abstract

The moral domain comprises behaviours that have consequences for the rights and welfare of others (Turiel, 1983). In this review, research examining such behaviours in the sport context is discussed. Researchers have approached the study of moral behaviour in sport from different theoretical and methodological perspectives. Two approaches that have spawned a considerable number of studies in recent years are Rest's (1984) four-component model of moral action and Bandura's (1991) social cognitive theory of moral thought and action. Research emanating from these approaches is discussed followed by work on good and bad sport behaviours, fair play, and aggression. Within each perspective, the measurement approach to behaviour is described, findings of relevant studies are discussed, and strengths and weaknesses of these studies are identified. The review concludes by identifying emerging trends in the literature and offering directions for future research.