CONSIDERATIONS ON THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA AND THE MEDIA ON ATHLETES’ IDENTITY AND PERFORMANCE
How Media Exposure Influences Self-Image, Psychological Pressure, and Sports Motivation
Abstract
This article aims to investigate the impact of social media and media exposure on athletes’ identity, motivation and performance. Based on a theoretical review of recent studies in Sports Psychology, the text seeks to understand how the use of social networks affects the emotional well-being, sports self-image and competitive performance of athletes. The study explores three main axes: the construction of sports identity, the psychological pressure generated by constant exposure, and the effects on motivation and performance. As final considerations, the article proposes that coaches, sports psychologists and athletes develop strategies for the conscious use of social networks. It also suggests that future research explore individual differences in the way athletes deal with these exposures, in the long term and in different cultural contexts. In short, the strategic and regulated use of social networks can be an ally or a threat, depending on how it is conducted.