ABSTRACT
Frankl (1959) maintained that the perception of meaning is essential for physical and mental health and well-being. This assumption has been subsequently supported by accumulating empirical evidence. The concept of meaning has been revitalised in positive psychology over the last decades but to date has not received much attention in sport. Generally, it could be assumed that athletes have a central purpose in life and should therefore perceive meaning. But there are cases demonstrating that the system of elite sport can make athletes particularly vulnerable to a loss of meaning. In professional sport athletes may be objectified as simply vehicles for delivering optimal performance. This potentially has a devastating influence on the self of the person, their intrinsic values and concerns, and particularly their perceived autonomy. Increasing evidence supports the assumption that finding meaning is intrinsically tied to self-determination needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. However, this implies that individuals have access to these basic needs. Research has shown that if these basic needs are constantly frustrated an “existential vacuum” or void results which is associated with lack of perceived meaning and thus mental health issues as a consequence. This chapter will attempt to elaborate on the concept of meaning in the field of elite sport. The basic elements of opportunities for finding meaning in sport will be outlined followed by a description of the adverse conditions in the system of elite sport that makes athletes vulnerable to perceiving a lack of meaning in their lives. Based on these considerations, perspectives for a sustainable development of athletes and improved conditions for athletes’ meaning in life, mental health, and well-being will be suggested.
