An investigation into the mental health, well-being, and coping strategies amongst UK and Irish jockeys (WD_2024_01_WSCH_SPONS)

Post summary

The bespoke working conditions of a jockey differentiates them from other athletes, in that jockeys primarily have exhausting calendars with no off season and take part in a sport that is exceedingly hazardous and high risk (King et al., 2021; Losty et al., 2019, Landolt et al., 2017; O’Connor et al., 2017; Wilson et al., 2014). Jockeys take part in a sport that is notorious for being challenging both physically and psychologically, for example, high incidences of injury (O’Connor et al., 2017); low weight requirements (Dunne et al., 2022); risky and rapid weight management methods (King et al., 2021), yet there is inadequate research concerning to the psychology of jockeys (Losty et al., 2019). A jockey is required to perform on demand and boost the performance of the horse (McBride & Mills, 2012). This unique experience of constantly changing horses provides the jockeys with a specific demand and stress. The aim of this research is to investigate the mental health, well-being, and coping strategies amongst amateur and professional Irish and UK based jockeys. This study will explore the prevalence of common mental health disorders in Irish and UK based jockeys and provide a deeper understanding of what supports the jockeys require.

Person specification

Qualifications

Essential

Honours Degree (minimum 2:1) in the specific area or related area including psychology, sport science, sports coaching, sport psychology.  

OR hold a master’s degree in one of the above disciplines

Desirable

Work or research experience within National Governing Bodies of Sport

Interest in the Horse Racing Industry

Statistical analysis using appropriate software

Conduct and analysis of qualitative interviews

Knowledge & Experience

Essential

·        Very strong interpersonal skills

·        Very high level of academic writing

·        Motivational skills

·        Personal organisational skills

·        Ability to work as part of a larger team

·        Applicants whose first language is not English must submit evidence of competency in English, please see SETU English Language Requirements for details.

Desirable

·        Good communication skills

Skills & Competencies

Essential

·        Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate on application that they meet SETU’s English language requirements and provide all necessary documentation. See Page 7 of the Code of Practice. In order to be shortlisted for interview, you must meet the SETU English speaking requirements so please provide evidence in your application.

Application procedure

Download the Research Postgraduate Application Form from here and return the completed application to researchadmissions@setu.ie quoting advert reference code from the above table WD_2024_01_CO in the email subject line.

Please note that paper submissions will not be accepted. 

The University may decide to interview only those applicants who appear from the information available, to be the most suitable, in terms of experience, qualifications and other requirements of the post.