Today, the case study that David Charlton and his colleague Colm O’Donoghue discuss is connected to a 16-year-old swimmer who spends a lot of time online checking his rivals out, be that on social media or reviewing stats and results.  The implication is that his motivation and focus when training fluctuates and negative emotions such as jealousy and anxiety are triggered.   As well, potential challenges with his own self-esteem and how he feels about himself can be evident. 

David and Colm offer some ideas to shift his focus so that he is able to enhance his motivation and feel better in himself.

Key Learning Points:

• Social comparison theory, proposed by Leon Festinger, suggests that individuals evaluate their own abilities, opinions, and accomplishments by comparing themselves to other people.  This theory suggests that we have an natural drive to evaluate ourselves, and social comparison is a primary method we use to do so.
• Develop a pre-race routine to get into the right mindset, consider when you want to be online and not especially as the race draws closer.
• Set SMART goals focused on personal improvement.
• Review your emotional experience and self-talk when your online, how does it make your feel? What are you telling yourself about situations that you come across?

Connect with David Charlton

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Podcast Episodes To Help Children Have A Positive Sporting Experience

Ep074: David Charlton – How Can I Make My Child Feel Confident?

Ep112: David Charlton – How to Deal with Physical Insecurities as a Young Athlete

Ep217: Chris Cook – How A Marginal Gains Approach Can Help You Perform Better

Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Athletes, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches

Youth Sports Psychology Library

Conversations With Kids Ideas

Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents

Resources To Help Children Have A Positive Sporting Experience

Helping Young Athletes Manage Emotions

Does Your Child Worry Too Much About What Others Think?

My Child Can’t Find “The Zone”