Toward a competency-based understanding of the training and development of applied sport psychologists.

Abstract

In this article, we discuss the notion of competence in applied sport psychology via the review of related literature on competence in professional psychology. With a view to synthesizing and transferring the work of the 2002 Competencies Conference to applied sport psychology, we focus on defining and understanding competence, delineating competencies and their emergence in applied sport psychology, the conceptualization of a competency model and its implications for applied sport psychology, and professional development and lifelong learning in applied sport psychology. We conclude by calling for the profession of applied sports psychology to create and sustain a culture of competence throughout the training and development of its practitioners.