Self-talk Repertoire of Physical Education Teachers: Awareness, Reflection and Action

Abstract

Self-talk (ST) is a strategy that has been found to change behavior by decreasing interference or distractions to better face challenges related to an impending task. Self-talk is typically a dynamic use of words, phrases or cues that may be positive, negative, instructional or motivational in nature. Physical education teachers and coaches have consistently used ST; however, they may not have even been aware of their own ST. Various functions of ST have been found to enhance the preparation, performance and reflection of teachers, yet the examination of the use of ST in physical education is still in its infancy. This article will help physical educators to determine (1) the steps that a self-aware teacher can use to implement effective ST in his or her teaching repertoire, and (2) how to use ST for a variety of functions that could be used by teachers before, during and after a teaching episode.