The Professional Quality of Life of Sport Psychologists: Development of a Novel Conceptualization and Measure

• Published in: Professional psychology, research and practice research and practice, 2019-06, Vol.50 (3), p.155-167
• Main Authors: Quartiroli, Alessandro, Wagstaff, Christopher R. D., Etzel, Edward F.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Concept Formation; Delphi method; Ethics; Helping professionals; Helping professions; Human; Measurement; Methodology; Professional Development; Psychologists; Psychology; Quality of Life; Quality of Work Life; Sport Psychology; Sports; Sports psychology; Test Construction
• ISSN: 0735-7028; 1939-1323
• DOI: 10.1037/pro0000213

Scholars within the field of psychology have increasingly reflected on the cost of caring and the quality of life of people in helping professionals. Indeed, the balance between the positive and the challenging aspects of this helping profession has become central in this discourse. In line with these developments, researchers have attempted to better understand sport psychology-professional quality of life (SP-PQL). In this article, we present the findings of a Delphi method study in which we aimed to develop an operational definition, conceptualization, and measure of SP-PQL. Specifically, we outline a rigorous, iterative three-stage Delphi process which was undertaken to reach expert panel consensus. In total, 16 participants, with over 10 years of experience in sport psychology, completed the three-stage Delphi. This study extends knowledge on quality of life in sport psychology via the development of a bidimensional model comprising challenges to and strategies to foster (SP-PQL). Moreover, the Delphi process led to the development of a novel instrument to measure SP-PQL among this professional group. Definitional, conceptual, and measurement advances emanating from this study and future considerations are discussed in relation to professional development, education, and future research. Public Significance Statement This study advances the knowledge on sport psychologists' professional quality of life (SP-PQL). Specifically, a panel of 16 expert sport psychology professionals worked to consensually agree on a definition of SP-PQL, as well as challenges to and strategies to foster SP-PQL. Additionally, these experts also contributed to the consensus-based development of a 42-item assessment tool for training, continuing education, and research uses.