‘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 are from marginalized backgrounds. To succeed in their profession, social support plays a crucial role. This paper discusses the role of social support among Muay Thai fighters, that assisted them to continue and thrive in their Muay Thai career. Semi-structured interviews and the photovoice method were conducted with 43 Muay Thai fighters in four regions of Thailand. Data were analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The findings showed five salient aspects of social support and their roles among the Muay Thai fighters including: (1) acceptance and belonging as social support; (2) appraisal and coping support function; (3) behavioral and cognitive guidance; (4) tangible and material assistance; and (5) modeling support. The sources of social support came from multiple means such as campsite owners, campsite trainers, friends, neighbors, family members, and Muay Thai followers. Most Muay Thai fighters received different aspects of social support from different sources. Social support helped to increase their ability to carry out their role and develop their future career. It is essential to understand social support for Muay Thai fighters through the lens of the insiders. Public health professionals, sports organizations and sports educators need to appreciate the importance of social support among Muay Thai fighters as such support acts as a buffering effect for the difficulties and suffering they may encounter at different stages of their lives as Muay Thai fighters.