Abstract
Sport may contribute to social development by supporting quality of life, social participation, and social capital. This study aimed to develop a policy framework for utilizing sport capacities in organizing leisure time and promoting social health. A qualitative design was used, based on semistructured interviews with 13 faculty members and experts in sport management and social policymaking selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using a grounded theory approach involving open, axial, and selective coding. The credibility and consistency of the analysis were supported through member checking, independent parallel coding, and documentation of analytical decisions. The analysis resulted in an integrated policy framework comprising causal conditions, contextual conditions, intervening conditions, proposed strategies, and anticipated consequences. Key elements included cultural position and social acceptance, sociocultural and resource-related conditions, environmental and demographic factors, infrastructure development, and social and motivational strategies. The anticipated consequences concerned economic, behavioral, and sociocultural outcomes. The proposed framework provides a conceptual basis for the development of sport-based leisure policies aimed at supporting social health and participation. Further research is needed to evaluate its applicability and anticipated outcomes in practice.
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