The Dualistic Model of Passion in Surfing: Practitioner Profile and Motivational Dimensions

Abstract

This study aimed to characterise the sociodemographic and practice profile of surfers in Portugal and to analyse their levels of harmonious and obsessive passion as a function of sex and modality. Methods: The sample consisted of 138 surfers (79% male; M = 38.79 years), with an average surfing experience of 20.71 ± 13.06 years. Results: The majority of the sample is Portuguese (88.4%) and resides predominantly in the North region (52.2%) and the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (23.2%). Regarding the specific modality, Shortboard is the most used board (51.4%), followed by Bodyboard (23.2%). The technical skill level presented a mean of 5.16 ± 1.78 (on a scale of 1 to 10). Inferential analysis detected no differences in harmonious passion between sex. However, men presented significantly higher levels of obsessive passion (p = .048; d = 0.42) compared to women. No significant differences were observed in harmonious passion levels (F[4, 133] = 0.13; p = .972; η² = .004) regardless of the type of board used. Similarly, although Bodyboard practitioners presented slightly higher mean absolute values of obsessive passion, this difference did not reach statistical significance (F[4, 133] = 1.88; p = .117; η² = .054). Conclusion: Surfing in Portugal is practised mostly as a harmonious activity integrated into one's identity. However, males present a higher vulnerability to developing obsessive patterns, suggesting that psychological interventions and the promotion of healthy practice habits should consider these sex differences.