THIS ISSUE: American Indian Mascots Excercise & Sport ESPNews Psychology Newsletter Interview: Charlie Brown Celebrating our 19th Year! Dissertation Award Summary Volume 19 Issue 3 Fall 2005 www.apa47.org Giveaway-athon 2005 Get Involved and Going On-line Ray’s Race Results Penny McCullagh, Ph.D. • President Greetings to Division 47 members. The last few months have been rather tumultuous for many. Katrina and Rita wrecked havoc with many individual’s lives and my heart goes out to those affected and those who helped. Despite the devastation in New Orleans, APA has announced that the conference will still be held in New Orleans. If that changes they will let the membership know. So plan to join us next August. Meantime, you have until December 2, 2005 to submit your presentations on line at apa.org. APA has responded to its members devastated by the storms. Those individuals in zip codes designated by FEMA will have their 2006 dues including division dues automatically renewed as well as journal subscriptions renewed. For more details, check the APA web site. We can all help bring New Orleans back to life by attending the conference in 2006. Division attendance at this year’s conference seemed a little low. Despite an excellent program, many of our members attended the International Sport Psychology meeting in Sydney and just didn’t make it back in time to join us. Nonetheless, those who did attend enjoyed the sessions and the camaraderie. Division 47 has a busy agenda for the next year. I would like to thank all the committees for the work over the past year. It is now time to reconstitute the committees. I would like to see our five primary committees align with the Directorates within APA. APA has a great deal of power and influence and I believe that if our divisions align with the Presidential initiatives and the goals of the Directorates that we can become more visible and viable as a division. Our divisions are also responsible for selecting many of our awards, so serving on these committees can be quite satisfying. In the box on page 2 you will find brief descriptions of the committees and their respective Chairs. Our super duper Secretary Treasurer Diane Finley has done a great job of organizing Division 47 administrative tasks on a Blackboard site. All committee members will need to work within this online tool to complete their business. IF YOU WANT TO HELP THE DIVISION, CONTACT THE COMMITTEE CHAIRS AND AGREE TO HELP. One of my initiatives as President of Division 47 is to develop online courses that address the Kinesiology (Sport Science) aspects of sport psychology (.e.g., motor learning, exercise physiology, sport psychology). My proposal is to develop two levels of online classes. The first level of courses would be designed for psychologists who want to learn more about sport psychology and receive CE units that will contribute to renewal of their state license. These courses would be relatively short. The second level of courses would build upon these first courses but would be university credit courses. They would be taught by top professionals in the field and would be designed to meet the standards required for certification by the Association for the Advancement of Applied Sport Psychology. I have contacted potential instructors for these courses and Diane Finley has agreed to help with some of the logistics. One of the critical issues is getting the courses approved for CE credit. As such the Executive Committee agreed to put forth the necessary monetary resources so Division 47 could apply to APA to serve as an approved sponsor for such programs. Over the next few months I will be preparing that paperwork for submission. Initial response from psychologists at the APA Convention was promising. I look forward to your support of this initiative. I look forward to helping Division 47 move forward. Contact me anytime at [email protected]. Yes – my university changed its name. It is now California State University, East Bay. Congratulations, Reflections, Division 47 2004-2005 Advertising and Insertion Schedule ESPNews is the official newsletter Division 47 (Exercise and Sport Psychology) of the American Psychological Association. ESPNews is published three times a year – Spring Fall, and Summer – and has a circulation of over 1000 Inspirations, and Invitations professional and student-affiliate members. The membership of Division 47 is diverse, representing academics and practitioners from both psychology and Kirsten Peterson, Ph.D. • President-Elect exercise science. For each issue of the newsletter, Division 47 will accept advertising from Well, here it is, my journey as president-elect is well on its way, after individuals, professional organizations, and businesses. For further inquiries getting the news a few months ago that I’d been elected, then going about advertising or to place an advertisement with the division, please through the “who, me?” period when people I had never met were contact: congratulating me and wishing me well in my new role. This experience thus far has made me even more aware of the potential we have as a division of APA to make an impact far beyond the Robert J. Harmison, Ph.D. bounds normally ascribed to our smallish population. And wow, was it cool to even get a Editor, ESPNews congratulatory message from a person from the Philippines! Program Chair, Sport-Exercise Psychology Argosy University/Phoenix I attended the annual conference in Washington, DC and began my more formal education 2233 W. Dunlap Ave., Ste. 150 into the inner workings of APA as I attended meetings designed to bring us newly elected Phoenix, AZ 85021 division folks up to speed with the many opportunities and resources that APA has to offer. (602) 216-2600 As usual, I was revived professionally by the vast array of APA programming including [email protected] several wonderful sessions hosted by Division 47. I came away newly impressed by the energy and drive of our own executive board, thanks to the leadership of now outgoing- Rates for placement of an advertisement in one issue of the newsletter are: president Frank Webbe, and was inspired by the always energetic Penny McCullough, who has an ambitious agenda set for her tenure as president. Full Page (8.5 X 11 inches) $600 I have been reflecting on my journey thus far, and where this role will lead. As I noted in Half-Page (8.5 X 5.5 inches) $350 my position statement prior to being elected, my strengths as a sport psychologist are as a Quarter-Page (4.25 X 5.5 inches) $200 practitioner, and as such, it seems most prudent to allow those strengths to guide my agenda moving forward. As such, I am more determined than ever to maintain the initiatives set Payment for an advertisement is due at the time of ad submissions. Deadlines forth by my predecessors in terms of our sport psychology service giveaways, pushing the for advertisements are the same date as other newsletter submissions. That sport psychology proficiency process forward (a process sometimes likened to steering the date can be found at the end of each previous newsletter. Queen Mary, but we shall persevere!), and supporting Penny McCullough’s efforts to move forward with online sport psychology/sport science course availability.
At the same time, there are exciting developments coming from APA that dovetail neatly with some of our division’s and field’s issues, which I am eager to pursue. APA President Gerald Division 47 Committees Koocher has proposed a “green and grey” initiative in support of his theme to help early career psychologists become more established. This initiative proposes, among other things, to link up individual early career psychologists (the “green” group) with a more seasoned Science Committee – Chair – Chris Janelle ([email protected]) mentor (someone from the group affectionately known as the “greys”). This mentoring Determines creative ways to increase the identification of sport concept seems to have great application for sport psychology, a small field where members psychology as a science. Recommends Dissertation Award recipient and are often left on their own – literally – come graduation time to make their way in the field. generates nominations for the Distinguished Contributions to Science and I hear often from colleagues who envy me for even having sport psychology colleagues on Research in Sport and Exercise Psychology. site with whom to consult and gain support. It strikes me that our field could help itself grow from within by establishing our own mentor-relationship program. Such a program could function to speed up the learning curve for and provide support to new sport psychology Public Interest Committee – Chair – Sam Maniar ([email protected]) professionals, and help to encourage our generations of professionals to intermingle in Helps resolve issues of strong interest to the public (e.g., sport violence) mutually beneficial ways. I welcome your thoughts on this issue. and generates position statements. Coordinates the Giveaway-athon at the Convention and generates nominations for the Distinguished I was also recently inspired by an interdivisional research proposal from one of our Contributions to Sport and Exercise Psychology in the Public Interest. members, Dr. Michael Sachs, to examine how developmental sport psychology programs at the university level could provide initiatives to enhance character development for our children and youth. There are many ways to exploit the potential of our field, as noted by Education Committee – Chair – Ed Etzel ([email protected]) Frank Webbe in his last presidential column, and what better mode of transmission of our Educates students, professionals, and the public on sport psychology division’s message of health and maximized potential than through our children? issues. Generates nominations for the Distinguished Contribution to Education and Training Award. As you can see, the ideas are flowing! Yet…it’s been said before and has never been more true…this division is only as strong as the members to work to make it that way. I am honored to be part of a division whose executive board is dynamic, dedicated, and hard- Practice Committee – Chair – Jack Watson ([email protected]) working, but without your input and support as members of the Division, we can only do so Explores appropriate opportunities to provide services to organization and much. I invite you to think about, respond, and even help move some of these ideas, or individuals. Generates nominations for the Bruce Ogilvie Award for ideas of your own, forward. I invite you to consider submitting a session for next year’s Professional Practice. annual APA conference and joining one of our committees (education, practice, science, membership) and as always, feel free to contact me or any of the other Division 47 Board Membership Committee – Chair –Frank Webbe ([email protected]) members with feedback, information, and questions. Develops strategies to enhance our membership and liaison with the APA Thanks again for electing me. It is truly an honor. Membership Directorate. Frank has graciously agreed to remain on this committee. However, I would really like to see some other folks step up to the plate and make a contribution here. EDITOR’S CORNER Cubs Win! Cubs Win! Cubs Win??? Robert J. Harmison, Ph.D. • ESPNews Editor
Well…it’s that time of the year when we Chicago can see, in your hands is another newsletter filled with various tidbits of information baseball fans pine for the years in the early 1900s that I hope you find informative. Join me in welcoming Dr. Kirsten Peterson (see her when we had a competitive major league baseball column) as she begins her stint as President-Elect. I think you will find her to be team. What’s that? Are you sure? You’re not gracious yet very excited to serve Division 47 in this role. The ever-energetic Dr. Penny kidding me now, are you? You surely wouldn’t do that to me. The city of Chicago will McCullagh (see her column) continues in her quest as President to lead the Division in be represented in the annual Fall Classic? But I gave up on the Cubs several months shaping the field of sport psychology for the future. In this issue you also will find a ago. In fact, I stopped watching the games on TV and following them on the internet resolution recently passed by the APA Council of Representatives recommending the and in the sports pages. O Lord Hallelujah! The journey is almost complete! Wait a discontinued use of Native American mascots and images in sport, and Dr. William minute…what did you say? The Southsiders of Chicago are rejoicing – not the Parham shares his perspective on how this was the right thing to do. Be sure to see Dr. Northsiders. That could only mean one thing – the much hated cross-town rivals, the Sharon Stephens Brehm’s article about the importance of voting in the APA Presidential White Sox – are in the World Series. Not my beloved Cubbies. Say it isn’t so, Bob! Election as well. Lastly, thanks to those who provided me with some feedback Fear not Cubs’ fans. Hopefully, those less-than-lovable Pale Hose won the regarding the format of the Spring issue. Please know that I value your comments and World Series this year (at the time the newsletter went to press, the World Series had made every attempt to improve the presentation for the Fall issue. yet to begin). We all know that it is scientific fact that good things happen in three. Well…it’s that time again to offer you a glimpse into my sporting past. Well, the Boston Red Sox ended the 3rd longest World Series victory drought when they Here in the desert southwest, the temperatures are dipping into the high 70s during won last year’s championship for the first time since 1918. The White Sox were 2nd the day and low 60s overnight. Yep – it’s time to unpack the winter coats, gloves, hats, on that list, not having won the World Series since 1917. It doesn’t take a genius to and boots. Fearing the one month of unbearably cold, winter weather that lies ahead figure out whose next in that line of losers, now does it? Although for all you Cubs’ and longing for the warm days of summer, I offer you a photo of when I was training bashers out there, we were back-to-back champs in 1907 and ‘08. GO CUBS! in my backyard pool for the Olympics. Luckily for the rest of the world, my love for Hopefully, the fall issue of the newsletter is finding you doing well. As you baseball overtook my talent in swimming and diving. Until next time….
Call for Division 47 Student Representative Nominations Each year, a student co-representative who is a student-affiliate of Division 47, is selected to serve the division and be a liaison to the Executive Committee. For this position, the student-affiliate shall:
1) Attend the executive and business meetings of the division during student-affiliate sponsored presentation at the annual convention. the annual APA Convention, and if feasible, attend the mid-year 5) Act as a liaison between student members and the Executive meeting. He/she will provide a student-affiliate report regardless of Committee on ideas, problems, concerns and suggestions. whether he/she can attend the meetings. 6) Sit on committees of the division and/or assist the committee 2) Write a column in the spring and fall issues of the division's chairperson in the selection of a student for the committee. newsletter. 7) Perform any other job agreed upon by the division President 3) Assist the President in the selection of the new student-affiliate. and/or Executive Committee. 4) Work with the program chair to plan a student meeting and/or
For those student-affiliates who are interested in applying, please send (a) 1-2 page statement of interest in the position and (b) a current vita to Dr. Kirsten Peterson, Division 47 President-Elect (see back of newsletter for mailing address). Dr. Peterson, in consultation with the current co-student representatives, will select the new student co-representative. Announcement of the new student representative will be made at the APA Convention.
Page 3 PROFESSIONALPROFESSIONAL NEWSNEWS
Workshops and Conferences The European Network for Young Specialists in Sport Psychology announces the 2nd ENYSSP Workshop to be held in Ghent, Belgium, November 18-19, 2005. More information visit www.enyssp.org/ENYSSP-Workshop-2005/index.htm or contact Xavier Sanchez ([email protected]) or Caroline Jannes ([email protected]; [email protected]).
The Springfield College Center for Performance Enhancement and Applied Research (CPEAR) will host the 2006 Conference on Counseling Athletes, June 19-20. Contact Meghan Shepherd at 413-748-3325 or [email protected] for more information.
Books/DVDs Fitness Information Technology, part of West Virginia University's School of Physical Education, has recently released three sport psychology titles: Coaching for the Inner Edge, by Robin Vealey, You Haven't Taught Until They Have Learned: John Wooden's Teaching Principles and Practices, by Swen Nater and Ronald Gallimore, and Group Dynamics in Sport, 3rd Edition, by Bert Carron, Heather Hausenblas, and Mark Eys.
Mark Anshel, a newly appointed Fellow of Division 47, has authored a new book, Applied Exercise Psychology: A Practitioner's Guide to Improving Client Health and Fitness (2006). More information can be found at the Spring Publishing Company website (www.springerpub.com).
Dr. Roland A. Carlstedt, a member Division 47's Science Committee, produced a DVD on athlete assessment and intervention protocol titled The Carlstedt Protocol: Science- Based Sport Psychology. Order at www.americanboardofsportpsychology.org or [email protected].
News and Announcements Division 47 members Ron Thompson and Roberta Trattner Sherman co-authored a Position Stand on the Female Athlete Triad for the International Olympic Committee Medical Commission. The web address is: www.olympic.org/uk/organisation/commissions/medical/index_uk.asp.
On the May 31, 2005 the Ibero-American Society of Sports Psychology (Sociedad Iberoamericana de Psicología del Deporte; SIPD) was founded. As a supranational society uniting over 25 Spanish and Portuguese speaking nations, the SIPS will serve to develop sport psychology in some countries, consolidate it in others, and strengthen it in the majority.
Call for Division 47 Fellow Applications
In addition to the guidelines of the American Psychological Association, consideration for Fellow status in Division 47 is based on: 1) significant contributions to exercise and sport psychology in scholarly activity and/or service, and 2) continuous membership in Division 47 for a 3-year period prior to nomination.
The Fellows Committee is chaired by the Division 47 immediate Past-President, who currently is Judy Van Raalte, Ph.D. If you are interested in becoming a Fellow, or would like to nominate someone whom you believe has earned that honor, then please contact Dr. Van Raalte for more information. Her contact information can be found on the back of the newsletter.
APA Division 47 Fellows *Mark Anshel Diane Gill Frank Landy *Al Petitpas Judy Van Raalte Michael Asken Ruth Hall Michael Mahoney John Raglin *Frank Webbe Britton Brewer Lenore Harmon Jerry May Arthur Resnikoff Robert Weinberg Steven Danish Kate Hays Penny McCullagh Robert Singer Arno Wittig Irene Deitch John Heil Andrew Meyers Ronald Smith Deborah Feltz Daniel Kirschenbaum Shane Murphy Frank Smoll Raymond Fowler Daniel Landers William Parham Charles Spielberger
*Special congratulations to Mark Anshel, Al Petitpas, and Frank Webbe, each of whom is recently a newly appointed Fellow through Division 47!
Page 4 Division 47 Executive Board Meeting Minutes APA Convention • August 18, 2005 • Washington, DC by Diane Finley, Ph.D. • Secretary/Treasurer
In Attendance: Frank Webbe, Diane Finley, Bill Parham, Keith McConnell, Suanne 1. She has met with the APA accounting firm to get D 47 on the APA budget schedule Shocket, Jennifer Carter, Adam Wright, Kirsten Peterson, Penny McCullagh, Ed Acevedo, and to bring 47’s reporting of expenses in line with APA categories. David Conroy Program is due to APA January 29. Submission Date is December 2. Webbe welcomed Ed Acevedo to the Board. Reports following. The giveawayathon went well. Over thirteen Division members participated. The Convention is going well. Carter is continually updating the Policies Manual. Webbe reported that member Harmison received one paid ad for the newsletter. Webbe reported. UNT’s Center for numbers are down but he is working on revitalizing the Membership Committee. A Sport Psychology and Performance Excellence was commended for their work on the survey will be conducted during the winter to determine why members do not renew. website. They have proposed to continue the contract for 2006 under the same The Practice Committee is working to get the Supervision brochure approved. They are parameters. The Board will examine getting a dedicated site for the website with a more collecting information on the application of sport psychology in life enhancement reflective name. If anyone has a sport psychology domain name that they are willing to programming. . The Public Interest Committee is encouraging members to join APA’s give Division 47, they should contact Penny McCullagh. Parham reported. Levant’s media referral database. The new chair of the Education Committee is Ed Etzel. Presidential theme is “Health Care for the Whole Person” and “Making Psychology a Household Word.” Cultural diversity is another big issue. Webbe suggested working Shelley Wiechman has resigned as Chair of the Science Committee. The Board together to submit an interdivisional grant application. Carter, McCullagh and Parham commended her for her work on the Committee. A strong group of dissertations was will work on the grant application submitted. Amy Latimer is this year’s winner. Her advisor is a previous dissertation award winner. Ray’s Race was more expensive due to additional security costs. Sponsorship was obtained from several divisions. Suanne Shocket, incoming RP President, will pursue this Anshel and Frank Webbe were granted Fellow Status. in more depth for 2006. RP is now an official section of Division 47.
Finley presented the proposed 2006 budget and asked the Board for input by October Complete minutes can be obtained from the Secretary.
Open Call for Division 47 Award Nominations Distinguished Contributions to Exercise and Sport Psychology in the Public Interest
This award recognizes individuals who have made distinguished contributions to the Public Interest which advance exercise and sport psychology as a science and/or profession. Award criteria include the identification of and/or solution for significant social problems, unusual initiatives, or dedication in activities which meet client or community needs in exercise and sport psychology.
To be considered for the award, the individual must be a current member of Division 47. A letter of nomination outlining specific contributions, a current vita, and the names, addresses, e-mails, and phone numbers of three sport psychologists familiar with the nominee’s work must be sent to Dr. Frank Webbe, the current Past-President who chairs the Awards Committee. Frank’s contact information can be found on the back of the newsletter. All nominations must be received by December 31, 2005.
Page 5 Ray’s Race 2005 APA Convention • Washington, DC Keith McConnell, Ph.D. • Past-President, Running Psychologists
This year’s Ray’s Race was held on Saturday, August 20 with a 7:15 a.m. start. The 5K course was an out-and- back along a paved, riverside road in Anacostia Park just south of the Anacostia River in southeast D.C. Over 175 runners and walkers including conference attendees, family and friends were treated to a comfortable overcast morning well before the extremely hot and humid weather that arrived later in the day. As usual, our beloved former APA CEO, Ray Fowler (who founded the race 26 years ago) ran the race and wore race bib #1. Many runners wore their brand new, bright red, 2005 race t-shirts, adorned with the Capitol Building on the front and the red, white and blue American flag flowing on the back.
The most challenging aspect of this year’s race was getting the runners to the race location at Anacostia Park. Both of the buses that picked up participants at the main hotels got lost in the pre-dawn darkness leading many of the race organizers of Division 47, like Running Psychologist president-elect Suanne Shocket, to call upon their stress management techniques as they responded to this unexpected pre-race crisis. Once there, everything went smoothly and a wonderful race was had by all. The overall winners were Kevin Elliott (16:59) and Linda Bruhn (18:45), and many other runners were winners in their respective 5-year age groups. Our youngest winner was 9 year-old Zachary Pendley while longtime Ray’s Racer, Irene Deitch led the way in the 75+ group. Bob Walch was the first walker to finish in a speedy time of 35:05. Other categories acknowledged included Psi Chi, National Psi Chi, Division 47 and Convention Exhibitors (see page 7 or go to the Running Psychologists web page for complete results). The top three finishers in each group received stylish, blue stainless steel water bottles inscribed with their accomplishment.
Runners and walkers who stayed for the awards ceremony were treated to a random raffle with a wide variety of gifts contributed by APA convention exhibitors, as well as special donations by Division 47 members like Kate Hayes’ beautifully crafted earrings and a free ChiRunning workshop by yours truly. The restaurant that hosted the Friday night pre-race, pasta dinner, Gordon Biersch, donated two $25 gift certificates. The final prize in the raffle was a large phrenology bust won (“legitimately” according to volunteer statistician Noah Nason) by none other than Ray Fowler (pictured above). Division 47 President, Frank Webbe, had unusual luck in winning the toilet training animal characters which he just happens to need to assist in an important project involving his 2 year-old grandson.
Special thanks go to the APA Division Services team led by Keith Cooke as they handled all on-site registration and distribution of race materials. We also want to acknowledge the generous sponsorship contributions of APA, APA Insurance Trust, Psi Chi, Division 47 and Divisions 19, 38, and 51. We look forward to next year’s Ray’s Race although its location is now uncertain in light of the disaster in New Orleans.
Giveaway-athon DC 2005 Judy L. Van Raalte, Ph.D. This year’s sport psychology giveaway-athon in Washington, DC was a parents and meet her conference obligations and new executive board duties. smashing success thanks to the involvement of everyone from the Division 47 Mitch Abrams used masterful organizational skills to pull off a football anger executive board to student members, with professional members, and people management program for high school athletes during preseason, a workshop in the community lending a hand for good measure. that was almost lost to scheduling glitches. Renee Newcomer assisted by Hope Sport psychology giveaway-athon presentations were made to youth Jones and Molly Thornton conducted two workshops at one location managing athletes, parents, inner city high school football players, and business a dazzling display of long distance organizing. consultants looking to apply sport psychology principles in the business world. The generosity of our members is remarkable and the excitement of Presenters met in gyms, on playing fields, and in corporate offices. Time the students involved in the giveaway-athon events was high. This year’s scheduling around the convention was tight but the presenters made it work. giveaway-athon served as a strong reminder that with some planning, willing For example, Christine Sanchez helped arrange a workshop so that Gloria sport psychology experts, and marketing it is possible to promote the field of Balague could squeeze in a giveaway-athon presentation in the morning and sport psychology and attend APA all in the same weekend. Plans are already still make it to her APA conference presentation in the afternoon. Division 47 being made for next year’s giveaway-athon. Please contact Judy Van Raalte at president-elect Kirsten Petersen managed to give a workshop for youth sport [email protected] if you are interested in being involved.
Page 6 Ray’s Race RESULTS Washington, DC • August 20, 2005 Official Men’s Results Official Women’s Results
Page 7 Bridging the Gap: Promoting Physical Activity Among Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury Within the Context of the Theory of Planned Behaviour Amy E. Latimer, Ph.D. – 2004 APA Division 47 Dissertation Award Recipient
Of the nearly 300,000 North Americans living with a spinal cord injury (SCI), the majority are Study 2: Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour to Predict Leisure Time sedentary (Pentland, Harvey, Smith, & Walker, 1999). This is a Physical Activity Among Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury serious health issue. In persons with SCI, leisure time physical activity (LTPA) contributes to the maintenance of functional independence and Using the LTPA PARA-SCI category as a primary outcome, the the prevention and management of secondary health complications purpose of Study 2 was to examine determinants of physical activity such as pressure sores, pain, and depression (e.g., Hicks et al., 2003; among people with SCI (n = 110) within the context of the theory of Duran, Lugo, Ramirez, & Eusse, 2001). Given the importance of LTPA planned behaviour (Ajzen, 1985). This prospective study revealed that to the physical and psychological well-being of people with SCI, there attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control (PBC) predicted physical activity intentions while intentions, but not PBC, is a tremendous need to develop LTPA-enhancing interventions for this explained a small amount of the variance in LTPA. The poor prediction very sedentary population (Rimmer, Braddock, & Pitetti, 1996). of behaviour suggested a need to investigate whether strategies that Effective LTPA interventions target theory-based facilitate the translation of intentions into behaviour can serve to determinants of activity (Rothman, 2004). Unfortunately, there have strengthen the intention-behaviour relationship. been few theory-driven investigations of LTPA determinants in the SCI population, (Crocker, 1993) rendering it impossible to establish a Study 3: Bridging the Gap between Intentions and Behaviour: Increasing theoretical foundation for LTPA interventions. Furthermore, the lack Physical Activity Among Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury of a valid and reliable measure of LTPA for use among people with SCI has hindered research on both theoretical determinants and With the framework of the TPB, Study 3 utilized a interventions (Latimer & Martin Ginis, in press). Without the basic randomized, controlled design to examine the efficacy of an 8-week tools to develop and evaluate an LTPA intervention (i.e., a theoretical implementation intention intervention as a means of helping individuals framework and a measure of LTPA), it was necessary to take a with SCI (n = 53) follow through with their intentions for physically programmatic, “bottom-up” approach to addressing the problem of active living. The results indicated that participants who formulated inactivity among people with SCI. implementation intentions (i.e., the implementation intention condition) This approach involved validating a measure of LTPA, then using the spent more time engaged in physical activity and were more likely to measure to study theory-based determinants of LTPA, and finally, enact their intentions than individuals who did not create implementation implementing and evaluating an intervention that targeted important intentions (i.e., the control condition). Further, participants in the theoretical determinants of LTPA. These objectives were addressed in implementation intentions condition had stronger intentions and greater three separate dissertation studies. confidence to schedule their physical activity than participants in the control condition, suggesting that implementation intentions may Study 1: The Construct Validation of the Physical Activity Recall influence cognitions related to physical activity. Assessment for Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury (PARA-SCI) Contributions to Science Specifically, Study 1 examined the construct validity of the This dissertation contributes to an improved understanding of Physical Activity Recall Assessment for Individuals with SCI (PARA-SCI). measurement issues and advances psychosocial theory and models An assessment of convergent validity (n = 73) and construct validation within the domain of LPTA and SCI. Specifically, Study 1 represents an by extreme groups (n = 158) provided evidence of the construct validity important first step towards advancing LTPA research in the SCI of the leisure time physical activity (LTPA) PARA-SCI category but not the population. With a valid LTPA measure, researchers can now move lifestyle or cumulative activity PARA-SCI categories. It was concluded forward and study LTPA determinants and interventions. Study 2 that the PARA-SCI is suitable for assessing LTPA among individuals with contributes to the SCI literature by identifying theory-based determinants SCI and should be used to advance research examining physical activity of LTPA. Furthermore, application of the TPB to a special population determinants. broadens the empirical support for the utility of the TPB in the physical activity domain in general. Study 3 advances scientific knowledge insofar
Page 8 as it advocates an expansion of the TPB to include II as a means of subjective norms (e.g., encourage physicians to recommend LTPA), attitudes strengthening the intentions-behaviour relationship – a central relationship in (e.g., highlight benefits of participation), and PBC (e.g., provide detailed “how the prediction of LTPA. to” information; Olson & Zanna, 1987). Perhaps the greatest implications for practice are derived from Study 3. The Study 3 findings support the notion that Contributions to Practice among individuals with SCI, good intentions are not sufficient to promote The dissertation findings have important implications for guiding physical activity participation. To facilitate the translation of intentions into practice. In accordance with the Study 1 findings of a positive relationship action, practitioners should encourage individuals to form II. In turn, setting II between LTPA and fitness, people with SCI should be encouraged to partake in should lead to greater PA and perceived control and sustained intentions to moderate to heavy intensity LTPA in order to gain and maintain optimal fitness. participate in PA. Ultimately, the use of II interventions should bolster the The results of Study 2 suggest that targeting TPB variables may be a means of effectiveness of much-needed initiatives promoting PA among individuals with increasing people’s intentions to engage in LTPA. Specifically, to bolster the SCI. intentions of those with poor intentions, health practitioners should target
Amy is currently a Postdoctoral Fellow in Dr. Peter Salovey’s Health, Emotion and Behavior Lab at Yale University. Her recent research examining effective health messages is funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. For correspondence, including a complete reference list, she can be reached via email at [email protected].
2005 APA Division 47 Dissertation Award
Division 47 of the American Psychological Association invites the submission of applications for the 2005 Dissertation Award. This award recognizes outstanding student research that has the greatest potential for making a significant contribution to the theoretical and applied knowledge base in exercise and sport psychology. The previous recipients of this award are John Raglin (1988), Debbie Crews and Diane Weise (1989), Karla Kubitz (1990), Cathy Lirgg (1991), Anthony Piparo (1992), Richard Albrecht (1993), Patricia Smith (1994), Gabrielle Reed (1995), Kathleen Martin (1996), Alan Smith (1997), Gregory Norman (1998), Claudio Nigg (1999), Rene Newcomer and Nicole Culos-Reed (2000), Roland Carlstedt (2001), Sean Arent (2002), Tracie Rogers (2003), and Amy Latimer (2004).
Application requirements are as follows: 1) a 1500 word abstract which includes (a) Introduction, (b) Review of Literature, (c) Methodology/Statistics, (d) Discussion, (e) Contribution to Science and Practice; references also should be included but do not count toward the 1500-word limit; 2) the student applicant and/or his or her dissertation advisor must be a member of Division 47 at the time of application; 3) a letter of support from the applicant’s advisor confirming the completion of the dissertation and the degree by December 31, 2005, and it must express support for the research in question; and 4) applications must be postmarked by February 1, 2006. All materials should be mailed to: Chris Janelle, Ph.D., Dept. of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611.
Abstracts will be judged by a panel of professionals in exercise and sport psychology who are members of Division 47. The awardee(s) will be notified of their selection by mid-March so they can make plans to attend the 2006 APA Convention in New Orleans to receive the award. The award includes a plaque, a monetary gift, and the opportunity to present their research. If you have further questions, please contact Dr. Janelle at [email protected].
Page 9 Doing the Right Thing: Retiring the American Indian Mascots, Symbols, Images and Personalities William D. Parham, Ph.D., ABPP • Council Representative
The legacy of dehumanizing treatment of American Indian nations by the United States of America is a matter of record. The facts are clear and there is no debate. America’s mockery and trivialization of American Indian culture, sacred rituals and spiritual practices continues today in the form of parading American Indian mascots, symbols, images and personalities by schools, colleges, universities, athletic teams and organizations.
The perpetuation of hate-based notions of superiority relative to the American Indian community establishes and maintains an environment that feels unwelcoming, hostile and antagonistic. Further, promoting insensitivities that target American Indians gives implicit credence to the historic and contemporary expression of hatred-/greed-/power-based attitudes and behaviors directed toward other ethnic minority and marginalized groups. What’s more, the continued use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images and personalities has an adverse impact on the self-esteem of American Indian children (Chamberlin, 1999, Fryberg, 2004, Fryberg & Markus, 2003) and on the overall mental health and psychological behavior of American Indian people. Internalized oppression is a relevant and salient context within which to view this latter point. These hurtful practices also sabotage efforts of American Indian nations to illuminate their customs, traditions, values, and worldviews in accurate and appropriate ways. Indeed, overt or covert support for prejudicial practices fuels and fosters stereotypes and stigmatization.
Maintaining allegiance to arguments in favor of retaining American Indian mascots, symbols, images and personalities needs to be viewed within several contexts, not the least of which is economic. Sports teams and other organizations promoting “their” mascots, symbols, images and personalities are in business to make money. Retiring their product logo brings the threat of organizational disaffiliation, alumni withdrawal of financial support, decreased ticket sales and decreased revenue from the sale of team/organizational paraphernalia. Making money is not a bad activity in which to engage. However, in all discourse relative to the American Indian mascot issue it is imperative to tease out those responses that are rooted in principles of human dignity vs. those that are fueled by capitalism.
The continued use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images and personalities is an infringement of civil rights, fosters cultural misinformation and denies the American Indians their rights to self-determination. These transgressions are in opposition to ethical standards of the APA that demand that psychologists respect people’s rights and dignities and that they stand to the plate for the welfare of others. In keeping with this spirit, the APA Council of Representatives (CORs) at its Summer, 2005 convention, adopted the Resolution Requesting the Immediate Retirement of American Indian Mascots, Symbols, Images and Personalities by Schools, Colleges, Universities, Athletic Teams and Organizations (see accompanying article containing the resolution in this issue).
Page 10 Council of Representatives Recommends Retirement of American Indian Mascots
In August 2005 the APA Council of Representatives voted to adopt as APA policy the following Resolution Recommending the Immediate Retirement of American Indian Mascots, Symbols, Images, and Personalities by Schools, Colleges, Universities, Athletic Teams, and Organizations:
WHEREAS the American Psychological Association has recognized that racism and racial discrimination are attitudes and behavior that are learned and that threaten human development (American Psychological Association, June 2001);
WHEREAS the American Psychological Association has resolved to denounce racism in all its forms and to call upon all psychologists to speak out against racism, and take proactive steps to prevent the occurrence of intolerant or racist acts (American Psychological Association, June 2001);
WHEREAS the continued use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities undermines the educational experiences of members of all communities- especially those who have had little or no contact with Indigenous peoples (U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, 2001; Society of Indian Psychologists, 1999; Webester, Loudbear, Corn, & Vigue, 1971);
WHEREAS the continued use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities establishes an unwelcome and often times hostile learning environment for American Indian students that affirms negative images/stereotypes that are promoted in mainstream society (Fryberg, 2003; Fryberg & Markus, 2003; Fryberg, 2004a; Munson, 2001; Society of Indian Psychologists, 1999; Staurowsky, 1999);
WHEREAS the continued use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities by school systems appears to have a negative impact on the self-esteem of American Indian children (Eagle and Condor Indigenous People’s Alliance, 2003; Fryberg, 2004b; Fryberg & Markus, 2003; Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs, 2001; Society of Indian Psychologists, 1999; The Intertribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes, 2001);
WHEREAS the continued use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities undermines the ability of American Indian Nations to portray accurate and respectful images of their culture, spirituality, and traditions (Gone, 1995; Witko, 2005);
WHEREAS the continued use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities presents stereotypical images of American Indian communities, that may be a violation of the civil rights of American Indian people (U. S. Commission on Civil Rights, 2001);
WHEREAS the continued use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities is a form of discrimination against Indigenous Nations that can lead to negative relations between groups (U. S. Commission on Civil Rights, 2001; Witko, 2005);
WHEREAS the continued use of American Indian symbols, mascots, images, and personalities is a detrimental manner of illustrating the cultural identity of American Indian people through negative displays and/or interpretations of spiritual and traditional practices (Staurowsky, 1999; Witko, 2005);
WHEREAS the continued use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities is disrespectful of the spiritual beliefs and values of American Indian nations (Gone, 1995, Staurowsky, 1998);
WHEREAS the continued use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities is an offensive and intolerable practice to American Indian Nations that must be eradicated (U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, 2001; Society of Indian Psychologists, 1999);
WHEREAS the continued use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities has a negative impact on other communities by allowing for the perpetuation of stereotypes and stigmatization of another cultural group (Fryberg, 2004b; Gone, 1995; Staurowsky, 1999; U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, 2001);
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the American Psychological Association recognizes the potential negative impact the use of American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities have on the mental health and psychological behavior of American Indian people;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the American Psychological Association encourages continued research on the psychological effects American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities have on American Indian communities and others;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the American Psychological Association encourages the development of programs for the public, psychologists, and students in psychology to increase awareness of the psychological effects that American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities have on American Indian communities and others;
AND THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the American Psychological Association supports and recommends the immediate retirement of American Indian mascots, symbols, images, and personalities by schools, colleges, universities, athletic teams, and organizations.
Page 11 Council of Representatives Report August 2005 William D. Parham, Ph.D., ABPP • Council Representative
The APA Council of Representatives convened for 11/2 days during the recent convention in Washington, D.C. and much was accomplished. President Ron Levant provided updates on his four presidential initiatives (Making Psychology a Household Word; Promoting Healthcare for the Whole Family; Enhancing Diversity Within APA; and Evidence-Based Practice), making a point that all of his projects met their completion timetables. Already, evidence of the integration of each project into the framework of the organization is clearly visible. Dr. Levant also introduced the Presidents of the four ethnic minority psychological associations and granted each affiliation membership status.
Dr. Norman Anderson, CEO of the APA, was very upbeat and encouraging in his presentation to Council. His message that APA enjoys good fiscal health was welcome news. The 2005 budget is predicted to show a surplus of $457,000. Projections for fiscal health over the next few years were equally promising. Projected surplus for the 2006 budget is $463,000. Also, Dr. Anderson shares more good news when he told Council that the city council of Washington, D.C. approved a$1,000,000 per year property tax abatement for APA. Our part in the deal has us convening our annual convention every third year in D.C.
Dr. Gerald Koocher, President-Elect of APA, introduced his presidential initiatives and invited the organization to join him in actively promoting his Green Initiative (targeting the early career professionals), Gray Initiative (targeting senior psychologists) and Diversity, wherein he adds momentum to the multicultural related projects of his immediate presidential predecessors (Diane Halpern, Ron Levant). As a division, we should accept the invitation of Dr. Koocher to participate in bringing his initiatives to light. Let’s continue our dialogue regarding how best to follow through.
Council considered several other actions, including adding stronger language to the report on Psychological Ethics and National Security (PENS). For example, it was emphatically stated that there is never an excuse to inflict torture under any circumstances. Council asked several APA constituent groups to review the 2000 Commission on Education and Training Leading to Licensure in Psychology and forward their comments for consideration at the February 2006 COR meetings. Essentially, this report is recommending that graduate students will be eligible for licensure immediately upon graduation. Currently, 1500-2000 post-doctoral hours are required to sit for the exam. The current proposal argues a case for graduate students being able accrue all of their supervised hours (practicum and internship) prior to graduation. Council adopted the Resolution on the White House Conference on Aging, received the World Conference Against Racism (WCAR), adopted a resolution on Anti-Semitic and Anti-Jewish, and approved $35,000 for the establishment of a task force on the implementation of the multicultural competencies guidelines.
Subsequent to APA Hurricane Katrina and Rita struck New Orleans and the Gulf region leaving damage and destruction heretofore unseen in the United States. APA has been very involved in the relief efforts contributing money, personnel, and working in partnership with other national and local relief efforts. In light of this tragedy, discussions began regarding the 2006 APA convention as it is scheduled to convene in New Orleans. As of this writing, there are no plans to change the venue. Apparently, New Orleans has stated that they will be ready to receive visitors for convention business by March, 2006. Stay tuned.
Finally, refer frequently to the APA website (www.apa.org) as it contains detailed information about all that is reported herein as well as other information of interest.
Page 12 BOOK REVIEW Ready to Play: Mental Training for Student-Athletes by Ron Chamberlain Published by Ready to Play: Provo, UT (2003, ISBN 0-9742346-0-5, $12.95 USD, 99 pgs.) Reviewed by Anne Murtagh. Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology Bridgewater State College, Bridgewater, MA Ready to Play: Mental Training for Student-Athletes is a concise and practical guide to performance enhancement for the student-athlete. Clearly written and well organized, it integrates recognized, empirically supported sport psychology principles and techniques. It is accessible and useful to students, with thoughtful examples illustrating the importance of mental and physical preparation.
After an introductory chapter, Chamberlain outlines the “Building Blocks for Success.” The chapter effectively clarifies the essential role of each component for effective performance. The first block, “Big Dreams,” is the development of an ambitious vision that is personally meaningful and motivating. The dream, or goal, should be detailed and specific and can involve specific accomplishments or the development of personal characteristics important to the individual.
The second block, “Belief in Self,” is based on two factors: 1) good preparation, and 2) successful experiences. Optimism, mental toughness, and resilience are said to be related to maintaining belief in self, even under difficult circumstances. Chamberlain points out that belief in self is “dynamic” and always in flux, depending on the current challenge. “Plan of Attack,” the third block, involves a vision of how the athlete will achieve the goal, including a personal contract and detailing specific objectives for each day, week, and/or year. The author observes that common problems in this area involve anxiety and discouragement. In discussing how to contend with these difficult emotions, he refers to Jim Loehr’s “just for today” spirit. Akin to the Alcoholics Anonymous adage of “One day at a time,” it reminds the individual to focus on the small steps that can be taken today. Success in that day leads to motivation and momentum to continue.
While the “Building Blocks” above involve mental preparation, the next three are oriented toward athletes’ actual training, lifestyle, and performance. In “Work Ethic” Chamberlain points out that the daily workouts and behaviors of a successful athlete need to be intense, focused, and consistent. He clearly describes the warning signs and dangers of overtraining, and makes recommendations for how to remedy this problem. Chamberlain makes his point very effectively in the section on “Sacrifice,” or choosing not to do certain things that you know will hinder you. In a “Disciplined Lifestyle” the author’s focus is on things one does consistently each day, as opposed to things one does not do (as in sacrifice). It covers discipline in four areas of life that can lead to success in various kinds of pursuits, not just in athletics
Moving more into readiness for actual performance, chapter three outlines the “Big Three” – “Activation,” Emotion,” and “Focus.” Chamberlain suggests that athletes use the principles of this section in a checklist form, both to monitor their own readiness to perform and then to evaluate performance. Chamberlain emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, and suggests the use of a pre-game, or pre-practice assessment. Athletes need to know what levels work best for them, and to have a plan of familiar, well-practiced techniques designed to achieve optimal levels of activation, emotion, and focus.
Activation is said to include both physical and mental energy levels, which fluctuate with activities and times of day. Chamberlain spells out the specific physiological signs of activation, and encourages student-athletes to monitor their own levels to learn what works best for them. He also emphasizes the importance of establishing a regular rhythm and avoiding drastic changes in routine. With regard to emotion, Chamberlain lists emotional states reported by athletes when performing at their best. These include confidence, optimism, enjoyment, determination or competitiveness, some anxiety, and a blend of feelings like centeredness, harmony, gratitude and effortlessness. He also provides a list of emotions that seem to interfere with optimal performance.
The section on focus seems to this reviewer to be particularly useful. Chamberlain describes focus as selective attention to “cues that enhance performance,” while avoiding distractions. Preparation is required; it is important to identify a few, simple, controllable cues (e.g., images and/or self-talk) to be called up at performance time. This steers the athlete away from over-thinking about their performance. Staying focused at performance time, the author points out, also involves attention to the here-and-now. Lastly, the author points out the difficulty in staying focused over long periods of time; he encourages athletes to shift focus for brief periods of time when there is a break in the action, and then re-focus.
Chapter four, “Mental Training Tools,” details a number of practical strategies that student-athletes might use to adjust levels of activation, emotion, and/or focus. Chamberlain reminds athletes that repeated practice of these techniques will be necessary. Strategies for positive self-talk, imagery, and relaxation are explained, as are energizing techniques that involve a number of those strategies. Chamberlain also recommends the development of a focus plan and performance routines. The author provides very effective figures illustrating examples of pre-practice and pre-competition routines.
Lastly, in “Application to Life Outside of Sports,” Chamberlain suggests that the principles are useful in other settings as well. For example, he observes that athletes sometimes have difficulty with the transition out of sports and offers some illustrations that support his idea that these techniques, if mastered in athletics, can help with that transition and with the achievement of life goals generally.
The book includes a number of simple and well-designed figures that serve to clarify important points. The diagram that illustrates the “Building Blocks” was very effective, but was placed at the end of the chapter, rather than at an earlier point, where it might have been more helpful. The “journal exercises” after each section are simple and straightforward, encouraging step-by-step mastery of important principles.
In conclusion, Ready to Play: Mental Training for Student-Athletes is a well-written and thoughtful presentation of empirically supported sport psychology ideas and methods. It achieves its goal of offering these valuable tips in a format that is accessible and likely to be very useful to student-athletes.
Page 13 Meet the Professional: An Interview with Dr. Charlie Brown Adam Wright, M.Ed.
Previously, Div 47 student co-representative Adam Wright established an 3. “What is your area of specialization/expertise?” initiative to provide students with a venue for communication with sport psychology professionals. Consequently, he decided to create a “Meet the Dr. Brown considers himself a performance psychologist. Since he was Professional” interview section in the newsletter to encourage students to originally trained in systems theory, he feels that his expertise lies in contact professionals and conduct their own interview with a practicing sport evaluating peak performance within relationships. His training in strategic psychologist. Students are invited to submit interviews to be published in systems interventions allows him to look at an individual’s work/life balance future newsletters that they conduct with professionals that they consider to be to see how it affects and is affected by the broader system in which he/she mentors, guides, role models, teachers, and/or sponsors. Below is a summary performs. The environment can range from athletics to business, medicine, of the interview that Adam conducted with Dr. Charlie Brown. law, or any place that an individual is asked to perform a particular task within a specific time frame. 1. Summary of Dr. Brown’s academic background: 4.“What is your theoretical/philosophical background in applied sport Dr. Brown earned his BA in psychology from Davidson College in 1971, his MA psychology and do you have a preferred approach to professional practice?” in General-Theoretical Psychology from Appalachian State University in 1974, and his PhD in Counseling Psychology from University of Southern Mississippi Dr. Brown was trained in a counseling psychology doctoral program with a in 1979. He also undertook a formal re-specialization in Sport Psychology special emphasis on systems theory. This systems framework impacts how he primarily through UNC-Greensboro in 1997-1998. conceptualizes a situation, addressing the context in which a performance or problem might occur, and then choosing contextually intelligent interventions. 2. Applied psychology experience and academic publications/presentations, Those interventions frequently include an array of psychological skills and etc.: techniques in his efforts to provide pragmatic, brief, solution-focused consultations with a particular focus on attention and concentration skills. Dr. Brown worked in the mental health system in North Carolina as a para- professional for 3 years prior to entering graduate school. After completing 5. “What are some of the challenges and opportunities confronting sport his doctorate and an APA Clinical Internship in Kansas City, MO, he worked for psychologists in the future?” the state mental health system in North Carolina for 3 years before entering into private practice on a full-time basis. He has been a founding partner of According to Dr. Brown, the field of sport psychology is experiencing an Family & Psychological Services since 1980, and is currently director of FPS evolution that reflects a developmental phenomenon as sport psychology Performance, a division that specializes in performance enhancement, enters its “third generation.” During the first generation when sport executive coaching, and work-life balance. psychology was in its infancy, practitioners and researchers were not concerned with defining the field; rather, they were primarily interested in He is a past president of the North Carolina Psychological Association, and has doing the work. As knowledge and interest in sport psychology progressed, served on the Board of Directors of both the North Carolina Association for the second-generation focused on establishing a distinct professional identity. Marriage and Family Therapy and the North Carolina Psychological This focus on identity emphasized delineations between areas of expertise, Foundation. He also served one term on the APA Council as the Representative titles, credentials and in many ways is similar to the identity crisis of for North Carolina. adolescence. Dr. Brown does not view this “adolescent” phase of growth as a problem, but rather a natural phase of development. Presently there is an Although in full-time private practice, he has presented programs regionally, emerging “third generation” of sport psychologists that are not as concerned nationally and abroad every year since 1981 and has been a regular with boundaries and delineation of expertise; instead they are looking to contributor to popular sports magazines since 1996. He co-authored You’re apply established concepts to new areas and moving beyond traditional On! Consulting for Peak Performance with Kate Hays in 2004, contributed a boundaries. As the concepts that originated in working with athletes now chapter on the psychology of injury and rehab in Shane Murphy’s Sport Psych become absorbed and integrated into broader areas such as in business, Handbook in 2005 and most recently was senior author on “A Framework for medicine, and the arts, major challenges lie in (a) bridging the gaps between Developing Contextual Intelligence” published in The Sport Psychologist in the disciplines; (b) maintaining excellence in relevant research; and (c) having the spring of this year. courage to welcome the interest of the broader community of helping professionals. If this can be successfully accomplished, there will be new opportunities in applying sport psychology concepts to the broader scope of human performance. Page 14 6. “What is the most rewarding part of being an applied sport psychologist? 7. “What kind of experiences/education should I get to make me a more What is the least rewarding part?” competent/proficient professional?”
For Dr. Brown, the most rewarding part of being an applied sport psychologist Dr. Brown contends that the educational/experiential route that one takes is seeing a young athlete “blossom” as he or she begins to fully grasp the must be based upon want one ultimately wants to accomplish. Nevertheless, power of mental skills. He particularly enjoys helping them transition from he does believe that obtaining a doctorate in either clinical or counseling thinking in concrete terms to more abstract thought processes. He explains psychology along with the necessary sport science courses (as defined by that this cognitive shift is often essential for a person to progress from focusing AAASP and Division 47) would ultimately provide one with the greatest on outcome goals to process goals. In addition, he enjoys the fact that sport amount of opportunities in the field. However, he notes that other routes of psychology allows him to apply the concepts that he has learned in other study can lead to successful careers in sport psychology research, teaching, or aspects of his life and education to new settings. He feels that working as a consulting work. sport psychologist is a privilege and is honored to have the opportunity to work with his clients. 8. “Any final thoughts/recommendation concerning applied sport psychology in general?” On the other hand, the Dr. Brown finds that the least rewarding aspect of sport psychology is that he is still faced with the stigma that one needs to be sick to Dr. Brown often meets sport psychology students who would like to work solely work with a sport psychologist. Although the field has made great strides in with professional athletes. However, he feels that one must recognize that it communicating the positive effect of sport psychological interventions, the takes up to ten years to become an “expert” on a topic. Moreover, an field still suffers from the mistakes of past psychologists who have attempted effective practitioner needs to develop a successful track record as well. to treat performers solely from a pathological model. Therefore, he contends that there are many potentially rewarding opportunities for individuals who want to become successful applied sport psychologists by giving their services away. According to Dr. Brown, one never knows, it just may be the case that the youth athlete that you offered your services to for free might one day contact you when she is an Olympian or professional athlete!
APA Convention 2006 New Orleans, LA • August 10-13, 2006 David Conroy, Ph.D. • Program Chair
With the 2005 APA Convention in the rear-view mirror, our sights are set on planning for 2006. As many of you know, the 2006 APA Convention is scheduled for New Orleans, Louisiana. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, there are questions as to whether the city will be able to host the convention. At the time of this submission (two weeks after the hurricane made landfall), APA has made no decision to change the convention plans for 2006. Please check www.apa.org/convention06 for further updates. In the meantime, I encourage you to start planning your submissions for our 2006 meeting – we need your best work! Our programming time is limited and we want to showcase the best work in exercise and sport psychology for each other and our colleagues in related sub-disciplines.
The call for programs, forms, and further details are available at the website noted above. The deadline for submissions is midnight, December 2, 2005. If you have any questions, please contact David Conroy, Ph.D., Division 47 Program Chair, at [email protected].
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