Development of a Multi-Dimensional Scale to Measure Professional Athletes as Role Models

Abstract

Previous studies have indicated that young students who play sports look up to professional athletes and perceive these athletes as their role models. However, empirical studies that examine such perceptions comprehensively have not been conducted. In order to fill this gap in the literature, the current study developed a multi-dimensional scale to measure college student athletes’ attitudes toward professional athlete role models. The eight-factor sports role model scale has 40 items. The results of this study indicate that student athletes observe and emulate the eight dimensions of their sports role model’s behavior on and off the court in order to become like that role model. Such findings support social learning theory in the sport management discipline.