Abstract
As a rule identification processes are being interpreted within psychological theoretical concepts. This contribution presents such a psychological attempt to give a critical explanation of the course of identification. It is shown that these conceptions are insufficient to explain the identification with these idols for the formation of a stable role as an athlete. Empirical findings presented, rather point to the fact that these identification processes on the one hand belong to the more complex sphere of the entire aspect of life and on the other hand are related to specific fields of action. Thus, significant differences make their appearance in identification with idols, depending on the various stages of life, on differences of sex, the type of sport practiced and the intensity of practicing sport. Therefore it is suggested in this paper to choose for the explanation of the course of identification the more restricted conception of the reference group, where the social formation of perspectives for orientation and activity can to some extent be established.
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