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
- Research center on violence at sporting events at the Institute for Criminal Law and Criminology at the University of Bern
Invitation to Participate: Study “SPAGAT – Sport Criminological-Psychological Analysis of Boundary Violations for the Investigation and Reappraisal of Incidents in Gymnastics”
As part of this survey, we would like to examine the circumstances under which athletes in gymnastics may have experienced violence. In addition, we will assess satisfaction with the work done so far to address these issues, how the media coverage of the recent incidents is perceived, possible structural imbalances in the coach–athlete relationship, and, in particular, the psychological and psychiatric consequences of reported experiences of violence.The survey is aimed at both current and former gymnasts in elite gymnastics in the disciplines of artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, and trampoline gymnastics. Participants must be at least 16 years old.
Take part in the survey (in german).
In addition, we would like to explore gymnasts' perspectives in greater depth through interviews. The questions are based on the content of the survey. Prior participation in the survey is recommended but not required. Indicating your willingness to take part in an interview is non-binding. The interviews are initially planned for November/December 2026.
Declare your willingness to take part in an interview (in german).