Behavioral Sport Psychology Consulting: A Review of Some Practice Concerns and Recommendations

Abstract

This review addresses several contemporary issues in behavioral sport psychology which have relevance for professionals conducting intervention with athletes and coaches. It discusses cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and applied behavior analysis (ABA) disciplines, noting similarities and the need for further convergence in practice and research. Other areas emphasized in the review are intervention integrity, social validity assessment, coach-effectiveness training, and marketing services. An additional topic is the role of behavioral sport psychology professionals in translating empirically supported interventions and instructional procedures to general audiences concerned about exercise, health promotion, and youth athletes. Several forms and checklists for obtaining data and illustrating recommendations accompany the review.