Factors associated with coach–athlete conversations about mental health in intercollegiate sport

Abstract

Increasing conversation about mental health is one way to decrease stigma and prevent/treat maladaptive processes within the context of sport. Due to their proximity and influence over athletes, coaches can increase conversation and change team culture. The objective of this study was to apply the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to explore the factors associated with coach-athlete conversation about mental health. A total of 136 Canadian coaches completed a demographic questionnaire as well as a TPB-based survey measuring Attitudes, Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC), Social Norms and Intention. Intention was measured as Role perception, if a coach believed it was their role to be involved in athlete mental health. Behavior was measured as talking with an athlete(s) about mental health. Approximately 68% of coaches had spoken to athletes about mental health in the last season. The linear regression model predicted a significant amount (42.7%) of the variance in Intention ( p < .05) from the three TPB constructs. Logistic regression found a significant interaction effect of PBC and Intention on Behavior ( p < .01). Measured TPB construct scores were influenced by previous mental health training, personal experience with mental illness, age group and the act of talking ( p < .05). Although a promising amount of coaches spoke to athletes about mental health, improvement is still possible. Mental health training should continue to be promoted to all members of the athletic community. As attitude scores were generally positive, this training should potentially focus more on improving capabilities and social norms.