The Participation Motivation and Ethical Consciousness of Participants in Gambling Golf

Abstract

This study aims to examine the ethical awareness of golfers engaged in golf betting and to highlight ethical values in sports to promote correct understanding and healthy practice among the public. Qualitative research methodology was employed using primarily in-depth interviews and descriptive questionnaires to investigate the motives and ethical awareness associated with golf betting. A close examination yielded the following findings. The motives for participation in golf betting were revealed to be “creating appropriate tension,” “heightening concentration” and “fostering a sense of competition.” The respondents said that they engaged in the activity to enjoy playing with each other, improve their skills, and gain a sense of achievement. The ethical awareness of golf betting was categorized as having both a “light” and a “shadow” side. Regarding the “light” side, some said that betting was acceptable when the amount was small. Conversely, on the “shadow” side, it was noted that as the betting amount increased, players were tempted to resort to deceptive practices to win, which in turn undermined the true spirit of sportsmanship.