"It's psychology Jim, but not as we know it!": The changing face of applied sport psychology

Dan Sly*, Stephen D. Mellalieu, Christopher R.D. Wagstaff

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalComment/debate

46 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The field of applied sport psychology (ASP) has developed substantially in recent decades, and there exist a multitude of views regarding how contemporary practices can be best defined and conceptualized. In this article, we reflect on these developments and draw from a growing body of literature on professional development in an attempt to provide clarity on the expanding roles and responsibilities of the ASP practitioner. In doing so, we acknowledge the recent diversification of ASP practices, with an emphasis on competencies relating to working with more diverse performance populations (e.g., in business, military, health care, education, and the performing arts), engaging in organizational psychological practices, positive youth development, promoting life skills, and mental health and counseling support provisions. Furthermore, we offer suggestions for the future of ASP education and training, in an effort to contribute to the profession's continued journey toward maturation. This includes discussion surrounding the possible implementation of multisupervisory pathways, extended placement opportunities, and engagement in posttraining practices within specialist performance domains, in an effort to aid the development of more diverse competencies that reflect the multiplicity of current practice.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)87-101
Number of pages15
JournalSport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology
Volume9
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Feb 2020

Keywords

  • Performance psychology
  • Professional competence
  • Professional development
  • Sport psychology
  • Training

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