Applying the Social Constructivism Ethical Decision-Making Model: Gifts in Sport

Abstract Sport consultants (SPCs) are continuing to fulfill needs within the sport community. This paper addresses the unique dilemma that SPCs face when athletes offer gifts; the decision to accept or decline can cause unexpected distress within dual relationships. Those who practice in collectivist settings are asked to focus on the impact of both the group and the individual; specifically, these stakeholders in sport interact with coaches, athletes, and parents routinely and are asked to grapple with both their ethical duty and their own role within their respective agency. This paper examines current literature surrounding gifts in therapy, its potential impact on sport, and an ethical decision-making model is applied for those who serve this population.