Collective efficacy in sport: the future from a social neuroscience perspective

Abstract

In the last decade, collective efficacy has received increasing attention in the sport psychology literature. However, despite considerable focus on the antecedents and consequences of the construct (e.g., Magyar, Feltz, & Simpson, 2004), no research has considered the specific neuropsychological mechanisms that underpin the levels of collective efficacy perceived by individuals within sports teams. In this respect, neuroscience research outside sport psychology has identified cortical structures linked to socio-cognitive thought processes (e.g., Gallese, Keysers, & Rizzolati, 2004). Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide evidence for potential neurological processes that underpin collective efficacy perceptions. Specifically, we discuss these processes in relation to how collective efficacy is conceptualized, measured, and analyzed. We then discuss pertinent neuroscience research that indicates both imagery and observation based interventions are suitable for increasing individual collective efficacy perceptions. Finally, based on the neuroscience mechanisms discussed, future directions for research are suggested that aim to increase our understanding of the nature and influence of collective efficacy perceptions upon individual and team behavior.

Keywords:

• collective efficacy
• neuroscience
• imagery
• observation

Notes

1. A term used by Gallese and Goldman (1998) to describe the process by which humans understand the behaviour of other humans through the use of an action observation/execution matching system.