Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore negative experiences and positive growth among elite female athletes. Multiple interviews were conducted with five elite female athletes (M age = 20yrs) who competed nationally and internationally in their respective sports. Interviews were analyzed using a phenomenological approach (Groenewald, 2004; Smith & Osborn, 2008). Idiographic profiles were created to examine the meaning of negative experiences for each athlete, and common themes were examined across the athletes' profiles. Participants described diverse competitive (injury, sport transitions, conflict with coach) and non-competitive (bullying, eating disorder, sexual abuse) experiences which affected their athletic careers. Athletes' experiences were framed as part of an ongoing journey through elite sport which was characterized by perceived expectations and impression management. Within this context, the essential features of athletes' negative experiences were explored (isolation/withdrawal, emotional disruption, questioning identity as an athlete). Positive growth occurred for these athletes if they risked losing sport in their lives during their negative experiences. Findings highlighted the overlap between negative non-competitive experiences and athletes' 'sporting' selves. The results of this research have implications for understanding the ways in which elite athletes may or may not draw benefits from negative experiences.
