A mixed methods exploration of the parent perspective of talent development environments across a national multi-sport landscape

Martindale, Russell; Fountain, Hollie; Andronikos, George; English, Cedric; Dugdale, James H.; Ferrier, Stuart

Abstract

Parents are known to be important influencers in the talent development process but are often overlooked. Understanding the parent perspective may help National Governing Bodies and coaches improve their support for young talented athletes. This study aims to understand the parent perspective of the talent development experience across a national multi-sport landscape using mixed methods. Four hundred and eighty-five parents of pathway athletes completed the talent development environment questionnaire for parents (TDEQ-P), which included the opportunity for parents to respond in an open fashion. The results revealed several key relative strengths and weaknesses of the talent development environment. Areas identified for improvement included 1) Communication related to pathway understanding, planning, guidance, and feedback, 2) Individualised training, goal setting, and feedback, 3) Facilities, 4) Access to a specialist support network, in particular psychology support, 5) Engagement between coaches and, 6) Dual career management and engagement with educational institutions. The results also revealed evidence of context specific needs between performance level, sport type, and age group. The TDEQ-P may be an efficient and effective way coaches can access important feedback, improve communication, and build relationships with parents in sport.

Citation

Martindale, R., Fountain, H., Andronikos, G., English, C., Dugdale, J. H., & Ferrier, S. (2023). A mixed methods exploration of the parent perspective of talent development environments across a national multi-sport landscape. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 69, Article 102487. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychsport.2023.102487

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jul 7, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Jul 21, 2023
• Publication Date: 2023-11
• Deposit Date: Jul 17, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 21, 2023
• Print ISSN: 1469-0292
• Electronic ISSN: 1878-5476
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 69
• Article Number: 102487
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychsport.2023.102487
• Keywords: Talent development environment questionnaire, Parents, Talent pathway