Relationship between Dysfunctional Childhood Experiences and Successful Coping Skills in Elite Endurance Athletes
Relationship between Dysfunctional Childhood Experiences and Successful Coping Skills in Elite Endurance Athletes
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Issue Date
2005
Authors
Dunn, Paige
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which coping skills developed through dysfunctional childhood experiences played a role in successful sport performances. The study looked at elite endurance athletes and participants included one professional female triathlete and one elite female triathlete. A descriptive phenomenological study was used to examine these athletes' coping skills and the development of these skills. Results showed that the athletes in this study have used coping skills perceived to be developed in their childhoods in successful sport performances. The athletes shared their ability to focus on appropriate elements to help them cope, manage pain and persevere in their sport performances. This study suggests that when these athletes use the coping skill of "tuning out ", they have control over their focus. They have the control necessary to shift their focus to an area that allows them the necessary performance state to endure and succeed in their athletic event. Both participants in this study used a narrow-external type of attentional focus during their athletic performances. This study serves to further the limited research on coping skills of athletes and provides additional information in the understanding of this area.