| Date | November 2017 | Marks available | 22 | Reference code | 17N.Paper 2.BP.TZ0.14 |
| Level | SL and HL | Paper | Paper 2 | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | Discuss | Question number | 14 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Discuss two or more effects of drug use in sport.
Markscheme
Refer to the paper 2 assessment criteria when awarding marks.
The command term “discuss” requires candidates to offer a considered review of two or more effects of drug use in sport. Effects may contribute positively and/or negatively to an athlete’s performance.
Effects of drug use may include, but are not limited to:
• physical effects such as quicker healing from injury, weight gain, liver/kidney damage, increased risk of heart damage/stroke, weakened tendons
• psychological effects such as increased aggression, increased risk of mental illness, mood swings (including “roid rage” as a result of steroid use)
• addiction and withdrawal symptoms
• masculinization and feminization of athletes
• enhanced performance
• the masking of pain, leading to greater injury.
Studies related to effects of drug use in sport could include, but are not limited to:
• Liv et al. (2008) on unclear results of use of human growth hormone on athletic performance
• McGrath and Cowan (2008) on drug use in sport including effect on performance and detrimental effects
• Tokish et al. (2004) on performance and side effects of performance enhancing drugs
• Pope and Katz (1988) on steroid use and increased mood disorders
• Yates et al. (1992) on steroid use and increased aggression
• Brower et al. (1991) on steroid use leading to addiction.
Discussion points may include, but are not limited to:
• gender considerations
• cultural variations
• contrary and/or supporting findings or explanations
• application of research
• ethical issues.
Candidates may discuss two effects of drug use in order to demonstrate depth of knowledge, or may discuss a larger number of effects of drug use in order to demonstrate breadth of knowledge. Both approaches are equally acceptable.
If a candidate discusses only one effect of drug use in sport, the response should be awarded up to a maximum of [5] for criterion A, knowledge and comprehension, up to a maximum of [4] for criterion B, critical thinking, and up to a maximum of [2] for criterion C, organization.
