Research on sport injury development: Former and future approaches from an action theory perspective

In this introductional contribution, (1) model-theoretical backgrounds and directions of the actual approaches in sport injury research are clarified, (2) the resulting criteria and research desiderata are summarized, and (3) conclusions and perspectives for future research are outlined. Emphasis is given to trait and interactional concepts and approaches derived and closely linked to stress research. Considering the process of recovery and the reinjury phenomenon, various aspects are discussed, which have been neglected or have not been integrated in conceptualizations on injury until now. The action-theory perspective is outlined and suggested to build a framework for a more sophisticated approach. Following this model, it is recommended to focus more on process analyses and also to refer to single case studies in future research on sports injuries.