Skinner, B. R. (2013) The relationship between confidence and performance throughout a competitive season. All Graduate Plan B and other Reports. Paper 285. Retrieved from http://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1284&context=gradreports
When looking at sports, it is obvious immediately that sports is competitive. It’s working against others to achieve a task first. This is undeniable. Additionally, it has been discussed at length about how sports can be detrimental to an individual’s confidence. However, what is rarely discussed is how sports can have a hugely positive impact on a child’s confidence.
When looking at confidence’s influence in sports, it can be separated into two categories; traits confidence and state confidence. Traits confidence refers to a long-standing disposition that an athlete (or student) exhibits in a competitive task. This is more permanent character trait and make difficult to alter. A state confidence refers to the athlete or students mind frame “in the moment”. This can shift wildly and many influences can shift an athlete or student’s confidence during a task. A coach or teacher NEEDS to keep both of these in mind at all times as they impact the manner in which a student or athlete acts. Nonetheless, competition, and sports, can have a wonderfully positive influence on individuals. It acts as a source of personal accomplishments, is an avenue for verbal praise and motivation, and also plays a role in a positive psychological state with the proper framework. All of this however is depends on the facilitator. Under several studies, a coach or teacher’s confidence has a direct relationship to the participants under their care. A high confidence in the coach will result in a high confidence in their team.
Another key post to mention is the idea of resiliency. Sports and competition builds resiliency. While it may seem like high success and always winning would breed high confidence, it it actually incorrect. An athlete or student that faces failure and the succeeds, actually builds resiliency and a higher form of confidence. This “stumbling into confidence” method strengthens the student or athlete’s character and sets the student up for a greater deal of success in the future.