Replication of Munroe et. al

Peter Giacobbi and Christopher Palkon*

College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505

Presentation Category: Oral-Behavioral & Social Sciences (Oral Presentation #45)

Student’s Major: Finance and Accounting

Mental imagery involves the visualization of specific thoughts, feelings and behaviors in one’s mind. Mental imagery in sport has narrowed down to four questions: the content, why and where they use imagery, and when. Munroe et al. (2000) produced a framework that conceptualizes imagery to consist of cognitive and motivational functions that operate on a different levels. Since the publication of this study, advancements in technology have allowed athletes to practice mental imagery in a variety of settings and with other purposes. Equally as important is that in Munroe there was only a small sample of 14 collegiate athletes, which precludes broader generalizations. The primary purpose of this study is to replicate and extend Munroe by re-examining the 4W’s of imagery (where, what, when, and why athletes use imagery) with a broader same of high school, colligate and professional athletes from a more diverse sample of sports. A convivence sample of athletes that are older than 15 years will be recruited using institutional contacts. The goal is to recruit about 20 athletes from various competitive levels such as: skilled youth, collegiate, and professional athletes. Interviews will be conducted at various institutions across North America. We will use a semi-structured interview guide that will assess the 4Ws of imagery and how imagery is used before, during and after competition. All interviews will be recorded. In this study, we expect to learn ways that athletes use imagery through technology, working with coaches, sports psychologists, and their views about it affects performance.

Funding: West Virginia University

Program/mechanism supporting research/creative efforts: a WVU 297-level course