An extreme sport, also known as an action or adventure sport, is a counter-cultural activity that involves a high level of risk. These activities provide an exhilarating experience by conquering obstacles. However, despite the physical and mental benefits they offer, extreme sports also have the potential for serious injuries or fatalities.
The activities of extreme sports involve speed, height, a high level of physical effort, and specialized gear and spectacular stunts. While traditional sports also require high levels of physical exertion, extreme sports have a counter-cultural aspect that traditional sports lack. Furthermore, extreme sports have a higher number of uncontrollable variables, which adds to their excitement. These factors attract a younger crowd and are usually performed as individual activities.
Extreme sports can be participated in either individually or as a group. BMX and Bungee jumping are examples of individual extreme sports, while Water rafting and Bobsledding are sports that are done in groups. There are also sports like Sky diving and Mountaineering that can be done both individually and as a group. The typical behavior of participants in extreme sports is often seen in a negative light, with participants being labeled as crazy risk-takers who disregard the concerns of their worried family and friends.
Psychological research shows that extreme sport participants have a distinct perception from others. They possess a physical need for adrenaline, which is generated by fear. Fear is a natural emotional response and a survival mechanism inherent in everyone. It prompts us to be alert to danger and prepares us to confront it. Dopamine, a monoamine neurotransmitter and hormone, plays several crucial physiological functions.
Individuals who have a strong desire for intense experiences and excitement, also known as high sensation seekers, experience an increase in dopamine production in their brains compared to those with low sensation-seeking tendencies. Risky sports appeal to both genders equally, with no distinction based on sex, although there is usually a specific target demographic. Generally, people between their late teens and mid-thirties frequently participate in these activities. Athletes involved in extreme sports typically demonstrate higher levels of energy, acceptance, conscientiousness, emotional stability, and openness compared to non-athletes.
Participating in high-risk sports requires more emotional stability than non-risk sports. This is important for individuals involved in extreme sports as it helps them stay calm and in control during dangerous situations. People who engage in extreme sports often have what is known as a “Type T” personality, which means they are more likely to take risks. Type T individuals are usually extroverted and creative, and they enjoy exciting new experiences. This personality type can have both positive effects, like with entrepreneurs, or negative effects, similar to sociopaths.
