Beyond the athlete: an approach to understanding and preventing doping in sport

Abstract

This essay aims to reconceptualise doping in sport as a systemic phenomenon rather than merely an individual transgression. Applying Rasmussen's Risk Management Framework, it synthesises evidence demonstrating how doping emerges from complex interactions across multiple hierarchical levels—from international governance to individual athletes. The traditional deterrence-detection-punishment paradigm is critiqued for its reductionist focus on athletes whilst overlooking broader sociotechnical influences. ActorMaps and AcciMaps illuminate key relationships and leverage points within this system. The work proposes a multi-level prevention framework aligned with the emerging "Anti-doping-II" paradigm, integrating proactive interventions across all system levels—from policy reform to peer-led initiatives. This system thinking approach shifts responsibility from individual blame to collective action, offering a more holistic and sustainable pathway towards doping prevention in sport.