Considerations on the impact of social media and media on athletes' identity and performance

how media exposure influences self-image, psychological pressure, and sports motivation

Authors

  • Marcos Alencar Abaide Balbinotti Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières – UQTR, Département de psychologie

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5016/bjsphd.v1i1.19439

Keywords:

Mídias sociais; Identidade esportiva; Saúde mental; Regulação emocional

Abstract

This article aims to investigate the impact of social media and media exposure on the identity, motivation, and performance of athletes. Based on a theoretical review of recent studies in Sports Psychology, the text seeks to understand how the use of social networks affects the emotional well-being, sports self-image, and competitive performance of athletes. The study explores three main axes: the construction of sports identity, the psychological pressure generated by constant exposure, and the effects on motivation and performance. As final considerations, the article proposes that coaches, sports psychologists, and athletes develop strategies for the conscious use of social networks. It also suggests that future research explore individual differences in how athletes deal with these exposures in the long term and in diverse cultural contexts. In short, the strategic and regulated use of social networks can be an ally or a threat, depending on how it is conducted.

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Published

2025-06-26

How to Cite

Considerations on the impact of social media and media on athletes’ identity and performance : how media exposure influences self-image, psychological pressure, and sports motivation. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF SPORT PSYCHOLOGY AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT, v. 1, n. 1, 26 Jun.2025.