New Research Shows Effects of Verbally Aggressive Conduct in Coaching
April 12, 2013, 11:32 am
To what extent can coaches use negative tactics to motivate athletes? And what impact does that approach have on coaches’ credibility?
Those questions, which have taken on new meaning in the aftermath of the Mike Rice firing at Rutgers University, are the subject of research to be published this summer in the International Journal of Sport Communication.
The main takeaway: Verbally aggressive language doesn’t work, even in an environment where athletes have been conditioned to expect it, the researchers found.
According to the study, which focused on feedback from 130 Division I college athletes, players who were exposed to a verbally aggressive coach reported significantly less motivation to perform, and viewed such coaches as significantly less competent, than did athletes who played for coaches with a more affirming style.
“This study shows that extra amounts of verbal aggression in the coach-athlete relationship is a negative thing—it’s not productive, and many athletes find it to be unacceptable,” says Joseph P. Mazer, an assistant professor of communication studies at Clemson University and the lead author of a report on the study.
The report, “Coach Verbal Aggression: A Case Study Examining Effects on Athlete Motivation and Perceptions of Coach Credibility,” was also written by Katie Barnes, Alexia Grevious, and Caroline Boger, all Clemson undergraduates.
An ESPN video of Mr. Rice kicking, screaming, and throwing balls at players showed him clearly crossing the line. The Clemson University study asked players about their response to coaches who used profanity and other berating language, and the players said that behavior also went too far, Mr. Mazer says.
“Even this middle-of-the-road example is perceived negatively by athletes,” he says.
The professor hopes that the study’s findings can help raise awareness of the effects of verbally aggressive conduct and lead colleges to look more critically at how athletes are treated.
“Coaches, in many ways, are teachers,” he says. “And if we hold teachers to high standards with respect to communication, we need to do it for coache
Those questions, which have taken on new meaning in the aftermath of the Mike Rice firing at Rutgers University, are the subject of research to be published this summer in the International Journal of Sport Communication.
The main takeaway: Verbally aggressive language doesn’t work, even in an environment where athletes have been conditioned to expect it, the researchers found.
According to the study, which focused on feedback from 130 Division I college athletes, players who were exposed to a verbally aggressive coach reported significantly less motivation to perform, and viewed such coaches as significantly less competent, than did athletes who played for coaches with a more affirming style.
“This study shows that extra amounts of verbal aggression in the coach-athlete relationship is a negative thing—it’s not productive, and many athletes find it to be unacceptable,” says Joseph P. Mazer, an assistant professor of communication studies at Clemson University and the lead author of a report on the study.
The report, “Coach Verbal Aggression: A Case Study Examining Effects on Athlete Motivation and Perceptions of Coach Credibility,” was also written by Katie Barnes, Alexia Grevious, and Caroline Boger, all Clemson undergraduates.
An ESPN video of Mr. Rice kicking, screaming, and throwing balls at players showed him clearly crossing the line. The Clemson University study asked players about their response to coaches who used profanity and other berating language, and the players said that behavior also went too far, Mr. Mazer says.
“Even this middle-of-the-road example is perceived negatively by athletes,” he says.
The professor hopes that the study’s findings can help raise awareness of the effects of verbally aggressive conduct and lead colleges to look more critically at how athletes are treated.
“Coaches, in many ways, are teachers,” he says. “And if we hold teachers to high standards with respect to communication, we need to do it for coache
Unraveling the Dynamics of Coaching Aggression: Research, Insights, and Implications
Coaching, in the realm of sports and beyond, is often regarded as a mechanism for mentorship, guidance, and skill enhancement. However, like any interpersonal relationship, coaching interactions can also encompass a range of behaviors, including aggression. The exploration of coaching aggression, its underlying factors, consequences, and potential management strategies, unveils a complex web of psychology, communication, and performance dynamics. In this article, we delve into the world of coaching aggression, drawing from research, insights, and implications for athletes, coaches, and the sporting community at large.
The Spectrum of Coaching Aggression
Coaching aggression refers to a variety of behaviors exhibited by coaches that are hostile, demeaning, or verbally and emotionally harmful toward athletes. It can manifest in both overt and subtle forms, impacting athletes' mental well-being, motivation, and overall performance. Understanding the spectrum of coaching aggression is essential to address its implications effectively.
Verbal Aggression: This involves the use of harsh language, insults, yelling, or belittling comments by coaches towards athletes. It can result in diminished self-esteem, increased stress, and reduced motivation among athletes.
Physical Aggression: Though rare, physical aggression by coaches is an extreme form of coaching misconduct. It may involve pushing, shoving, or even physical harm, leading to serious consequences for athletes' mental and physical health.
Psychological Aggression: Coaches can employ psychological tactics to manipulate, intimidate, or demean athletes. This might include isolation, exclusion, or creating an environment of fear.
Passive-Aggressive Behavior: This involves indirect forms of aggression, such as sarcastic remarks, silent treatment, or backhanded compliments, which can erode trust and morale.
Research Insights: Unpacking Coaching Aggression
Negative Impact on Athlete Well-Being: Numerous studies highlight the detrimental effects of coaching aggression on athlete well-being. It can lead to anxiety, depression, decreased satisfaction with the sport, and even early sport dropout.
Performance Consequences: While some athletes might initially respond to aggressive coaching with heightened performance, this effect tends to be short-lived. Over time, the toll on athletes' mental and emotional state can lead to decreased performance and burnout.
Communication Styles Matter: Research suggests that coaching effectiveness is closely tied to communication styles. Positive reinforcement, constructive criticism, and open dialogue foster a healthier coaching environment.
Parental and Cultural Influences: The background and experiences of coaches and athletes can influence coaching behavior. Coaches who were subject to aggressive coaching in their own careers might perpetuate the cycle, while athletes from certain cultures might be more accustomed to intense coaching methods.
Navigating the Complexities: Management Strategies
Education and Awareness: Coaches, athletes, and sporting organizations need to be educated about the various forms of coaching aggression and their potential consequences. This knowledge can help identify and address aggressive behaviors early on.
Establish Clear Guidelines: Sporting organizations should establish clear codes of conduct for coaches and athletes alike. These guidelines can define acceptable coaching behavior, creating a foundation for healthy interactions.
Mental Health Support: Athletes exposed to coaching aggression should have access to mental health support. Psychological counseling can help athletes cope with the emotional toll and build resilience.
Coach Training Programs: Implementing mandatory coach training programs can equip coaches with effective communication skills, conflict resolution techniques, and strategies to create a positive coaching environment.
Athlete Empowerment: Athletes should feel empowered to voice concerns about coaching behavior without fear of reprisal. Open lines of communication can facilitate a healthier coach-athlete relationship.
FAQ's About Coaching Aggression
Q1: Why do some coaches resort to aggressive behavior?
A: Several factors contribute to this behavior, including pressure to win, personal coaching philosophy, lack of communication skills, and sometimes the belief that aggression motivates athletes.
Q2: Can aggressive coaching ever be effective?
A: While aggressive coaching might yield short-term results, its long-term consequences on athletes' mental health and performance often outweigh any initial benefits.
Q3: How can athletes cope with coaching aggression?
A: Seeking support from peers, mentors, and mental health professionals can help athletes navigate the emotional challenges. Building mental resilience and maintaining a healthy perspective are crucial.
Q4: What's the role of parents in addressing coaching aggression?
A: Parents should be aware of their child's experiences with coaching and foster open communication. If concerns arise, they can collaborate with sporting organizations to address the issue.
Q5: Are there legal consequences for coaches who exhibit aggression?
A: In extreme cases, aggressive coaching behavior can lead to legal consequences, particularly if it involves physical harm. Sporting organizations often have mechanisms to address such misconduct.
Q6: How can coaches self-assess and improve their behavior?
A: Coaches can seek feedback from athletes, peers, and supervisors. Engaging in continuous learning, attending workshops, and practicing effective communication techniques are vital.
Coaching, at its core, is a partnership aimed at nurturing growth, fostering skills, and enabling success. While passion and intensity are integral to coaching, aggression has no place in this dynamic. Research and insights into coaching aggression shed light on its far-reaching effects and emphasize the need for a shift toward constructive, positive coaching approaches. By embracing education, awareness, and a commitment to mental and emotional well-being, the sporting community can pave the way for healthier, more productive coach-athlete relationships that enrich the lives of both mentors and mentees alike.
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