PSY FPX 6840 Assessment 2 Diversity In Sport Psychology

Student Name

Capella University

PSY FPX 6840 Current Issues in Sport Psychology

Prof. Name

Date

Multicultural Competence in Sport Psychology Practice

In order to effectively engage in the domain of sport psychology and consultancy, professionals must demonstrate competence in addressing multicultural issues, particularly when working with athletes. One institution dedicated to cultivating such competence is the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). The AASP strives to equip graduate students in exercise and sport psychology programs with the requisite skills for professional practice, including proficiency in professional ethics, applied sport psychology, and multiculturalism, culminating in certification as an AASP Certified Consultant (CC-AASP) (Carter & Prewitt, 2014).

Understanding multicultural diversity is pivotal as it encompasses variances in nationality, race, and ethnicity among individuals (Godfrey et al., 2020). In the realm of sports, teams composed of athletes from diverse backgrounds unite to achieve shared objectives, underscoring the significance of cohesion (Carron et al., 1998). Therefore, professionals who prioritize multicultural diversity in their practice contribute to fostering broader comprehension and mitigating unconscious biases.

Diversity in NFL Coaching Staff and Positions

Historically, the NFL has encountered scrutiny for its lack of diversity, particularly within coaching staff. Nonetheless, initiatives such as the Rooney Rule, instituted in 2003, seek to redress this imbalance by mandating teams to interview minority candidates for head coaching positions (Druckman, 2019). This reflects the intersectionality of race and sports, manifested in historical exclusion, media prejudices, and the underrepresentation of minority coaches.

PSY FPX 6840 Assessment 2 Diversity In Sport Psychology

Coaches wield significant influence in shaping athletes’ development and perspectives. Certain positions, like quarterbacks and cornerbacks, have witnessed a transition towards inclusivity, challenging racial preconceptions and biases (Coleman & Scott, 2018). Despite advancements, racial profiling, termed as stacking, persists, impacting perceptions of athletes’ capabilities based on race (Paule, 2011).

Ethical Considerations and Personal Reflection

As professionals, adherence to ethical standards is paramount, entailing a commitment to impartial treatment irrespective of race, ethnicity, or other variables (Association for Applied Sport Psychology, 2021). Grasping the client’s identity and context informs interventions and ensures culturally sensitive practice (Aoyagi & Portenga, 2010).

Personal encounters shape professional comprehension. As an African American navigating predominantly Caucasian spheres in sports, encountering racial biases firsthand informs a nuanced perspective. Reflecting on these encounters underscores the importance of impartial, client-centric approaches in practice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, championing multicultural competence in sport psychology practice is imperative for fostering inclusivity and addressing biases within the discipline. By prioritizing cultural diversity, professionals contribute to cultivating a more equitable and supportive milieu for athletes from diverse backgrounds.

PSY FPX 6840 Assessment 2 Diversity In Sport Psychology

References

American Psychological Association. (2017). Multicultural Guidelines: An Ecological Approach to Context, Identity, and Intersectionality. Retrieved from: http://www.apa.org/about/policy/multicultural-guidelines.pdf

Aoyagi, M. W., & Portenga, S. T. (2010). The role of positive ethics and virtues in the context of sport and performance psychology service delivery. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 41(3), 253–259. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0019483

Association for Applied Sport Psychology. (2021). ETHICS CODE: AASP Ethical Principles and Standards. https://appliedsportpsych.org/about-the-association-for-applied-sportpsychology/ethics/ethics-code/

Coleman, C., & Scott, J. (2018). Sports are not colorblind: The role of race and segregation in NFL positions. Journal of Emerging Investigators. 1-6. https://www.emerginginvestigators.org/articles/sports-are-not-colorblind-the-role-ofraceand-segregation-in-nfl-positions/pdf

PSY FPX 6840 Assessment 2 Diversity In Sport Psychology

Druckman, J. N., Howat, A. J., & Rothschild, J. E. (2019). Political protesting, race, and college athletics: Why diversity among coaches matters. Social Science Quarterly, 100(4), 1009– 1022. https://doi.org/10.1111/ssqu.12615