Purpose: This study aims to explore in depth the trauma and post-traumatic growth experienced by college short track speed skating athletes through the photovoice research method. It seeks to identify the underlying factors that contribute to their growth.
Method: This study employed the photovoice research method, utilizing thematic photography. Individual interviews were conducted with eight college athletes who compete in short track speed skating. The collected data were analyzed by integrating the photovoice analysis procedure with the six-step thematic analysis method.
Results: First, the traumatic experiences of short track athletes extended beyond physical injuries, encompassing complex crises involving psychological shock and anxiety about potential career interruptions. Second, the negative changes following trauma caused psychological stress and avoidant behaviors, driven by fears of relapse and concerns about skill deterioration. These factors significantly impacted athletes' decisions to continue in the sport and influenced their athletic identity. Third, the process of overcoming these negative changes was characterized by psychological growth achieved through self-reflection and a shift in mindset, moving beyond mere physical injury recovery. Fourth, the experience of post-traumatic growth was a key moment for self-reflection, building skills, and finding a new direction in life and identity.
Conclusion: Negative changes, such as anxiety about skill decline after injury, self-doubt, and feelings of isolation, profoundly impacted athletes' identity and motivation to continue participating in sports. Furthermore, increased suppression of emotional expression, deepening social avoidance, and heightened isolation demonstrate that injury is a multidimensional event affecting not only athletes' psychological functioning but also their overall social functioning. Throughout this process, the participants demonstrated psychological recovery and emotional growth through self-reflection, positive reframing, and support from others. This growth strengthened their self-direction, broadened their career exploration, and provided an opportunity to internalize a more mature approach to sports. Overall, they recognized this traumatic experience as a meaningful turning point in their lives and transformed it into a positive change.