Performance-enhancing drugs and violence in sport · GCSE PE

Performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs)

Stimulants increase alertness and reduce tiredness. Side effects: high blood pressure, heart problems and addiction.
Narcotic analgesics mask pain so a performer can compete when injured. Side effects: addiction and making injuries worse.
Anabolic agents (steroids) build muscle and help recovery. Side effects: liver damage, aggression and heart disease.
Peptide hormones such as EPO increase red blood cells, carrying more oxygen for endurance. Side effects: thicker blood, which can cause blood clots and strokes.
Diuretics remove water to lose weight quickly (such as in boxing) or hide other drugs. Side effects: dehydration and kidney damage.
Beta blockers lower heart rate and calm nerves for fine skills, such as archery or shooting. Side effects: tiredness and low blood pressure.
Blood doping: removing, storing and re-injecting blood to boost red blood cells. Risks: infection and blood clots.

Reasons: pressure to win, money and fame, and believing others are doing it.
For the performer: health risks, bans, fines, loss of medals and sponsors, and damage to reputation.
For the sport: loss of trust, fewer fans and sponsors. Testing (organised worldwide by WADA) is expensive.

Player violence can be caused by frustration, provocation, rivalry, the importance of the game, or a bad refereeing decision.
Spectator violence (hooliganism) can be caused by rivalry, alcohol, gang culture and frustration at the result.
Ways to reduce hooliganism: all-seater stadiums, alcohol restrictions, CCTV, more police and stewards, early kick-offs, segregating fans, and banning orders.