The Moderating Role of Metacognition on the Association of Grit and Performance Enhancement Drugs among Elite Athletes

Abstract Elite athletes’ on-field performance are increasingly resorting to prohibited performance- enhancing drugs ( PED s) to gain a competitive advantage, raising significant concerns in the sports world. While the theoretical underpinnings of the metacognitive approach to doping have been elucidated, the role of metacognition as a moderator remains unexplored. To address this crucial gap in our understanding, the present research endeavours to investigate metacognition as a moderator in the relationship between the non-cognitive trait of grit and athletes’ intentions regarding the use of performance enhancement drugs. This study encompasses a sample of 428 athletes (215 females and 212 males). Utilizing the Hayes Process module, we conducted a rigorous analysis to unveil a significant moderation effect, which was subsequently probed using the Johnson- Neyman technique to discern nuanced interactions. Our findings reveal a noteworthy relationship: gritty athletes, when equipped with high levels of metacognitive skills, exhibit a heightened propensity to consider the use of performance-enhancing substances. This insight underscores the intricate interplay between personal determination (grit) and metacognitive abilities in elite athletes’ decision-making processes related to PED s. Our suggested future directions focus on the development of targeted interventions and programs aimed at enhancing athletic performance through legitimate means, thereby steering athletes away from potentially harmful shortcuts.