Acta Univ. Palacki. Olomuc., Gymn. 2009 39(1): 17-25
Applying Gestalt therapy principles in counseling a female orienteer
- Faculty of Physical Culture, Palacky University, Olomouc
The article aims to suggest how a Gestalt therapy (GT) framework can be applied in sport psychology consultations and research. An explanation of GT's theoretical basis (Perls, Heff erline, & Gododman, 2004) and its three pillars (the field theory, phenomenology and the existential dialogue) is followed by a concrete example of its application in a particular performance analysis of a selected youthful orienteer. It is expected that this runner can get a restructured view of her strengths and weaknesses by acknowledging and becoming aware of her actions in successful as well as in failed performances. Since the research topic is relevant and significant only for athletes with the specified experience, a focussed sample has been drawn (Giorgi, 2005; Stake, 2005). In this article, the selected participant is an elite level 16 year old female orienteer who has reached medal positions in national and international competitions. Following GT principles (the field theory, phenomenology, a horizontal level of work in existential dialogue), a phenomenological interview (Pollio, Henley, & Thompson, 1997) was conducted. This case study shows that GT techniques assist the orienteer in benefitting from experience she gained through both successful as well as failed performances. The runner spotted discrepancies between them and figured out that "a step by step" navigation (secure attack points) would support her performance. Importantly, it was the runner who became aware of how she influences her performance in a positive as well as in a negative way, regardless of the fact that she used to be taught such a strategy before. Instead of getting advice from coaches, the runner formulated it herself. The crucial contribution of Gestalt therapy principles application to sports consists of encouraging athletes to take their own initiative, acknowledge and fully realize the relationship between actions and performance outcome, thereby getting the chance to participate actively and accept the responsibility for their development. Additional investigation is needed in order to estimate the contribution of the Gestalt approach to different age groups and at various performance levels. Further research might also be directed towards applying Gestalt coaching principles, used in organizations, in working with team sports.
Keywords: Gestalt therapy, performance analysis, awareness, orienteering, young athletes
Prepublished online: October 22, 2009; Published: January 1, 2009 Show citation
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