The effect of imagery on self-efficacy for a motor skill

Author(s): Howe, B. L.

Journal/Book: Int J Sport Psychol. 1997; 28: Via Panama 68, 00198 Rome, Italy. Edizioni Luigi Pozzi. 196-210.

Abstract: A multiple-baseline-across-subjects design was used to investigate the effect of mental imagery training on the magnitude of individuals' self-efficacy for a dart throwing task. Six (n = 6) subjects were administered a 15-session mental imagery training program following baseline sessions of varying lengths. Each imagery session included a relaxation component, followed by specific imagery training. Subjects were then asked to stand, perform a one minute centering exercise, and to image successful performance of the task. This war immediately followed by the completion of a self-efficacy and imagery rating scale, and actual performance of the task while blindfolded. Two subjects showed that their self-efficacy magnitude for the task had increased as a result of the imagery training. All subjects reported an improvement in their overall ability to image the task as a result of the intervention. It was concluded that imagery was able to enhance self-efficacy magnitude for the dart throwing task in subjects who were high ability imagers, had previous experience at throwing darts, believed in the performance-enhancing capabilities of mental imagery training, and had been exposed to relaxation and imagery procedures prior to the study.

Note: Article McKenzie AD, Univ Otago, Sch Phys Educ, POB 56, Dunedin, NEW ZEALAND

Keyword(s): imagery; motor skill; multiple-baseline design; self-efficacy; MENTAL-IMAGERY; PERFORMANCE; MODEL

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