Simplicity Does Not Always Lead to Enlightenment: A Critical Commentary on “Adaptation Processes Affecting Performance in Elite Sport”
in Journal of Clinical Sport PsychologyClick name to view affiliation
This paper is a critical commentary on the article “Adaptation Processes Affecting Performance in Elite Sport” (Schinke, Battochio, Lidor, Tenenbaum, Dube, & Lane, 2012). We review relevant literature and highlight theoretical and conceptual concerns regarding Schinke et al.’s model, particularly regarding their characterization of adaptation as a process versus an outcome, and the role of appraisals, emotions, emotional regulation, coping, and Fiske’s (2004) core motives within their model of adaptation. Adaptation or adjustment among elite athletes is a valuable area of research in sport psychology; however, Schinke et al.’s model oversimplifies the adaptation process and has limited utility among sport psychology researchers and practitioners.
Katherine A. Tamminen is with the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education and the University of Toronto. Peter R.E. Crocker is with the School of Kinesiology at the University of British Columbia.
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