Techniques of deceptive communication about doping / Marcel Reinold. - (European Journal for Sport and Society (2021) 31 May)
- DOI: 10.1080/16138171.2021.1930944
Abstract
The decision to dope almost inevitably implies the decision to engage in deceptive communication. We, therefore, analysed six autobiographies of deceiving cyclists and identified six communication techniques which deceivers routinely apply: (1) moralisation without personal criticism, (2) exaggerating the intensity of anti-doping policies, (3) victimisation, (4) playing down the extent of the doping problem, (5) omitting narrative details, and (6) pretending lack of doping-relevant knowledge. These techniques help deceivers to present themselves as compliant with the anti-doping system and appear credible in their commitment against drugs. Furthermore, it helps them to allay suspicion, prevent falsification, and generally manage the flow of destructive information in a way that avoids leakage and detection. Though there is no reliable cue to deceit, knowledge about deceivers’ communication techniques might increase awareness and help to ask critical questions.
