Self-fulfilling prophecy
Self Fulfilling Prophecy
The self-fulfilling prophecy is a concept that suggests our beliefs and expectations about ourselves or others can actually influence the outcomes we experience.
The self-fulfilling prophecy and learned helplessness highlight the power of beliefs and expectations in shaping outcomes. By understanding these concepts, athletes and coaches can work to develop positive mindsets and overcome negative patterns.
1. Self-Fulfilling Prophecy (SFP) in Sport & Exercise
- A self-fulfilling prophecy occurs when an individual’s expectations influence their behavior, leading to the expected outcome. In sports, this can impact performance, motivation, and confidence.
A. How It Works in Sport
- Coach or Athlete Holds a Belief : e.g., "I am not good at free throws."
- Behavior Changes Based on This Belief: Less effort, lack of confidence in training.
- Outcome Aligns with the Expectation: Poor performance reinforces the original belief.
B. Types of Self-Fulfilling Prophecies in Sport
- Athlete’s Own Expectations (Self-Imposed SFP)
- Example: A sprinter who believes they are slow might not push as hard in training, leading to slower times.
- Coach’s Expectations (Other-Imposed SFP)
- Example: If a coach sees an athlete as a "future star," they provide extra training, leading to improved performance (Pygmalion Effect).
- Example: If a coach sees an athlete as a "future star," they provide extra training, leading to improved performance (Pygmalion Effect).
Many coaches believe that at least 50% of sports performance is mental when facing an opponent of similar ability. Do you agree or disagree? Explain your reasoning with a sporting example.
C. Impact on Performance & Motivation
- Positive SFP: Increases confidence, motivation, and effort.
- Negative SFP: Creates anxiety, reduces effort, and leads to underperformance.
Self-Fulfilling Prophecy (SFP) & Sporting Success
- The self-fulfilling prophecy suggests that an athlete’s belief in their abilities (self-confidence) influences their performance.
- Higher confidence → greater persistence, effort, and motivation → increased chances of success.
- Example: A basketball player who believes they will make free throws will practice more and remain calm under pressure, increasing their chances of success.
- Coaches and teammates reinforcing positive beliefs can further strengthen confidence and performance.
2. Learned Helplessness in Sport & Exercise
Learned Helplessness
A condition in which a person has a sense of powerlessness event or persistent failure to succeed. It is thought to be one of the underlying causes of depression.
- Learned helplessness occurs when athletes believe they have no control over their performance, leading to low motivation, reduced effort, and avoidance of challenges.
- A common sporting example of learned helplessness can be seen in tennis players who consistently lose against a particular opponent.
- If a player repeatedly struggles against a rival and loses despite their best efforts, they may start believing that no matter what they do, they cannot win.
- Over time, this belief leads to reduced effort, lack of motivation, and avoidance behaviors, such as giving up mid-match or playing passively.
