The University of Glamorgan are currently conducting research examining the potential benefits of being a rugby supporter. They are interested in whether being a Dragons supporter could actually be beneficial to your general well being.
One of the most interesting areas that is being researched by the team is whether people can actually become ‘addicted’ to supporting their rugby team. Project leader, Dr Rachel Taylor explains below:
"We started by thinking about the stories that we had heard about people delaying their wedding, missing a family member’s birthday or bunking off work so that they can watch the cup final because their team was playing. What we are interested in is whether these people are actually ‘addicted’ to being a fan and if they are whether this is necessarily a bad thing."
"Generally being addicted to something is unquestionably a bad thing, alcohol, drugs, gambling etc are all negative things. We are interested in the idea that being 'addicted' to your favourite sports team might actually be helpful to you in other areas of your life. If your team is playing brilliantly it can make you feel fantastic, notionally increase your self esteem and if they aren't, or if other things aren't going well in your life, then you being a fan provides you with a support network of other fans to help you forget about it!"
Their research team is currently recruiting Dragons fans to take part in their research. Each participant will be asked to fill in a couple of questionnaires at different points during the season which can be completed on the internet or via post. The questionnaires will include questions on general well being and will look at people’s relationship with their club and their fellow supporters.
If you would like to take part please click the link below or if you would like any more information contact Dan Bowers via email (dbowers@glam.ac.uk).
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/9JML8X8
The research team are also very keen to talk to anyone who is involved in a local club side in one of the lower divisions in the Welsh leagues. If you regularly attend or have any involvement in a club like this please contact Dan Bowers on the above email address.
