Clinical Sociology of Sport and Professional Practice

Sport is often presented as a space of performance, competition, and achievement. Yet it is also a social world shaped by complex challenges affecting athletes, coaches, supporters, families, and sport organizations. Identity crises, social exclusion, violence, discrimination, psychological vulnerability, career transitions, institutional conflicts, and community tensions increasingly call for forms of intervention that go beyond purely technical or managerial approaches.

This session invites theoretical, methodological, and empirical contributions examining the role of clinical and applied sociology in understanding and addressing social problems within sport settings. Particular attention will be given to intervention-oriented approaches that seek not only to analyze social realities but also to contribute to their transformation through collaborative, reflexive, and action-based practices.

The session welcomes papers on clinical sociology, intervention sociology, sociological expertise, participatory action research, athlete support, community sport development, conflict resolution, organizational change, social inclusion, mental well-being, and the professionalization of sociological practice in sport.

Special attention will also be given to emerging professional roles and forms of sociological expertise capable of supporting sport institutions, clubs, federations, training centers, and public policies. The session aims to foster international dialogue on how clinical and applied sociology can contribute to more inclusive, reflexive, and socially responsive sport environments.

Keywords: clinical sociology; applied sociology; sport intervention; social inclusion; organizational change