Aj. Amorose et Mr. Weiss, Coaching feedback as a source of information about perceptions of ability:A developmental examination, J SPORT EXE, 20(4), 1998, pp. 395-420
This study examined, from a developmental perspective, how coaching feedbac
k serves as an ability cue. Boys and girls (N = 60) comprising 2 age groups
(6-8, 12-14) viewed videotapes of youth athletes attempting to hit a baseb
all or softball, followed by a coach who provided evaluative, informational
, or neutral feedback. Participants then rated each athlete's ability, effo
rt, and future expectancy of success. Separate 2 x 2 x 3 (age x gender x fe
edback type) repeated measures MANOVAs were conducted for the successful an
d unsuccessful outcome conditions. Following successful attempts, both olde
r and younger children rated praise higher than neutral and informational f
eedback as a source of ability information. Athletes receiving informationa
l feedback following unsuccessful attempts were rated highest, followed by
neutral feedback and criticism. Open-ended questions revealed some age-rela
ted differences in use of ability information. Results are discussed in rel
ation to research on sources of competence information and coaching feedbac
k.