Key Reflections from “On the Ground”: Working with Parents to Create a Task Climate

Abstract

Parents have been described as vital in the process of developing an athlete's goal orientation. This article discusses topical efforts to deliver a formal educational program for parents of competitive gymnasts. The aim of this program was to educate and enhance the parents’ ability to create and maintain a task-involved climate for their athletes, within a competitive gymnastics environment. Specifically discussed are the program's content, structure, practical tasks and parents’ evaluations, alongside our personal reflections regarding the effectiveness of the program. Advice for fellow sport psychology and coaching practitioners is offered throughout.

KEYWORDS:

• motivational climate
• goal orientation
• educational intervention
• parents
• gymnastics