Metamotivational states during canoe slalom competition: A qualitative analysis using reversal theory

Abstract

Fifty post-event interviews with 9 elite male slalom canoeists were analysed using a modified version of the Metamotivational State Coding Schedule (Potocky, Cook & O'Connell. 1993). Participants reported 7 of the 8 metamotivational categories posited by reversal theory (Apter, 1982). All participants consistently experienced autic mastery (self focused control) although they varied in their tendency to exhibit a telic (serious and future oriented) or paratelic (spontaneous and present focused) orientation. Most were willing to conform to competitive norms although there were several instances of negativism. Participants' experience changed (or reversed) at different stages of the competition in response to errors or external events. Above average performances occurred more frequently when participants' experience was consistent with paratelic autic mastery. Implications for coaches and practitioners are discussed.