Abstract des Autors

Research on experiences of Indian athletes is limited. This is the first study that explored the organizational stressors experienced by Indian elite female athletes and the impact on their psychological well-being. Ten participants were interviewed on their experiences with sport organizations in preparation for international tournaments. Drawing on Arnold and Fletcher’s taxonomic classification of organizational stressors in sport performers, a range of first- and second-order themes were identified and categorized. The emergent themes were aligned with the dimensions of psychological well-being. The study added to the existing literature on organizational stressors by considering them in a different cultural context as well as their link with psychological well-being. Perceived bias and lack of support from the sport organizations, limited access to support staff, and lack of basic training necessities were identified as the most commonly cited stressors. Data analysis led to the emergence of new themes specific to the Indian sports climate, such as, perceived gender discrimination and limited scope for a career in sports for female athletes. Consequently, the stressors resulted in feelings of low environmental mastery and personal growth. Recommendations are made for future research and practical implications for sport organizations and sport psychologists are identified. Verf.-Referat