‘I need support to continue my Muay Thai career’: A qualitative study on social support amongst Muay Thai fighters in Thailand

Abstract

Most Muay Thai fighters in Thailand come from marginalized backgrounds, making social support a crucial factor for their success in the sport. This paper explores the role of social support among Muay Thai fighters, highlighting how it enables them to continue and thrive in their careers. The study utilized semi-structured interviews and the photovoice method with 43 Muay Thai fighters across four regions of Thailand, with data analyzed using thematic analysis.

The findings identified five key aspects of social support that play significant roles in the lives of these fighters: (1) acceptance and belonging as social support; (2) appraisal and coping support functions; (3) behavioral and cognitive guidance; (4) tangible and material assistance; and (5) modeling support. Sources of social support included campsite owners, trainers, friends, neighbors, family members, and Muay Thai enthusiasts. Many fighters received various types of support from different sources, which helped enhance their ability to fulfill their roles and shape their future careers.

Understanding social support for Muay Thai fighters from an insider's perspective is essential. Public health professionals, sports organizations, and sports educators should recognize the significance of social support, as it serves as a buffer against the challenges and hardships that fighters may face at various stages of their lives.