Impact of turning points and transitions on work and family orientations: insights from collegiate coaches

Abstract

ABSTRACT Research Question The purpose of this study was to: (1) identify the kinds of transitions and turning points college coaches experience (particularly normative vs non-normative), (2) examine how various transitions and turning points in individual lives influence work orientations, and (3) examine how work orientations, transitions, and turning points impact individual work and life outcomes. Research Methods This study utilized in depth interviews with 30 head college coaches from the United States. The sample consisted of 12 women and 18 men who were 35 years or older and had several years’ experience coaching. Results and Findings Expected and unexpected transitions came from a variety of situations. Coaches discussed coping strategies for managing expected transitions, and the challenges of unexpected transitions, which at times also became turning points that changed work orientations. Several coaches adopted a stronger calling work orientation, while others became more job oriented, however none of the coaches became more career oriented. Also, turning points influenced coaches’ level of family engagement, often increasing family involvement. None of the coaches reported reducing family involvement following a life turning point. Implications These findings help sport administrators to understand the importance of being in tune with their coaches and realizing the influence of life transitions and turning points. These findings also provide needed theoretical insight and understanding about coaches’ lived experiences of transitions and turning points, and their impacts on orientations toward work and family.