Sports Criminology Research Group
Violence and deviance in sports
Recently, victim reports and allegations of significant interpersonal violence in sport have increased, particularly within the structures of high-performance sports associations. In order to investigate this and other phenomena, a “Sports Criminology” research group was formed in 2024 to collect quantitative and qualitative empirical data on the experiences of those affected and then systematically evaluate them. In a second step, future-oriented recommendations for action are to be developed for responsible stakeholders.The interdisciplinary team enables methodologically high-quality investigations to create evidence-based foundations for protection and prevention concepts. Members of the research group have already carried out several similar projects within and outside of sport in recent years.
Members of the research group
- Prof. Dr. Alexander Baur, Chair of Criminal Law and Criminology at the University of Göttingen
- Prof. Dr. Stephan Christoph, Assistant Professor of Criminology at the University of Regensburg
- Dr. Thaya Vester, Institute for Criminology at the University of Tübingen
- Sports Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Research Group of the Medical Faculty of the University of Augsburg
Announcement of the planned study “SPAGAT - Sportcriminological-Psychological Analysis of Border Crossings in Gymnastics”
The Sports Criminology Research Group is currently working on the conception of a study design on the overarching topic of “grievances in competitive gymnastics”, which recently came to public attention. The aim is to obtain a comprehensive picture of the situation from a scientific perspective in order to determine how athletes in gymnastics are and have been exposed to interpersonal violence. In order to obtain a holistic picture, the extent to which athletes have had positive experiences should also be recorded.
We therefore invite all persons who are currently or have been closely involved in German competitive gymnastics to participate in the study. The results should lead to well-founded recommendations to ensure the safety and well-being of all those involved in gymnastics across the board.
Parallel to the planned survey, the research group will provide psychological support for those affected, if desired.
An opportunity to register for participation in the study will be available here shortly.