A recent study from the University of Surrey and the Université du Québec à Montréal has found that coaches who use controlling methods can seriously harm athletes’ wellbeing and increase their risk of burnout.
The research shows that when coaches micromanage, criticize publicly, or punish arbitrarily, athletes experience higher stress levels and long-term mental health problems.
The study followed 72 student-athletes in Canada, collecting daily diary entries and measuring their heart rate variability (HRV) to track stress. This approach combined psychological and physical data to understand how coaching styles affect athletes’ motivation and health.
Researchers discovered that controlling coaching behaviors frustrate athletes’ psychological needs, leading to acute stress and burnout.
On the other hand, coaches who support athletes’ autonomy-by encouraging choice, listening to their views, and promoting growth-help athletes build mental strength and reduce burnout risks.
Dr. Sebastiano Massaro, co-author of the study, said, “It’s heartbreaking to see how controlling tactics, often disguised as discipline or tough love, cause real damage to athletes’ careers and lives.”
The findings call for urgent changes in sports culture. Dr. Massaro urges sports organizations to require training for coaches that focuses on supporting athletes’ independence rather than pushing a win-at-all-costs mindset. This shift could protect athletes’ mental health and improve their overall performance.
This study highlights the importance of a coaching style that values athlete wellbeing as much as results, promoting healthier, more sustainable sports environments for young athletes.
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