A Systematic Review of Goal Setting Interventions to Improve Sports Performance

Abstract

"ABSTRACT. Introduction. Goal setting theory (Locke & Latham, 1990) was initially developed for the field of organizational psychology, and since then it was used as a motivational technique in a variety of areas, including sports performance. Considering the multiple factors influencing sports performance and the fact that goal setting has become an increasingly popular subject, we consider it appropriate to summarize the recent results regarding this topic. Objective. The purpose of this paper was to conduct a systematic review of the literature on goal setting interventions to enhance sports performance. Methods. A comprehensive literature search of Scopus, ScienceDirect, Directory of Open Access Journals, ERIC, Social Sciences Citation Index, Science Citation Index, and APA PsycArticles databases was conducted in October 2020 and included journal articles published since 2000. Results. A total of 1520 results were identified, of which 27 studies met eligibility criteria and were fully reviewed. Conclusions. This systematic review highlights that goal setting is an effective behavior modification procedure that can improve athletes’ performance. Discussions focus on practical implications and future research directions."