Importance and effectiveness of goal setting

Question 1

Goal setting (2 uses)

Answer 1

• Goal setting is often used to increase a performer’s motivation, confidence and persistence on a task.
• It can also be a way of alleviating anxiety experienced by a performer in certain situations as well as controlling arousal levels.

Question 2

Goal Setting can Affect performance in 4 ways:

Answer 2

Directing attention

• can focus performers on what needs to be done to improve performance

Ensuring effort is sustained until the goal is reached

• goals motivate performers to continue with their efforts and not to give up too easily

Regulating the amount of effort is put into a task

• will ensure that there is no wasted effort on activities or movements that are unnecessary

Motivating people to develop a range of strategies to reach their goals

• development of successful strategies can make all the difference

Question 3

SMART goal setting

Answer 3

Specific

• Must be clear and specific

Measurable

• Need to be assessed
• allows for the performer to be realistic

Achievable

• Goals are decided on between coach and performer

Recorded

• Allows for progress to be monitored

Time phased

• Split into short and long term goals

Question 4

Different types of goals

Answer 4

Outcome Goals
Goals that are directed towards an end result of the activity

Performance Goals
Those that are directed towards the individuals end performance

Process Goals
Those that are used to improve a skill and are often related to technique

Question 5

Other factors affecting goal setting (3 points)

Answer 5

• The time span of the goals set can also impact on the achievement.
• Many sports performers will have a long term goal (season, 12months or more) and in order to achieve these they must start with achieving short-term goals.
• Short term goals (target dates/points within the season/year) allow greater opportunities for success which can reinforce positive feelings and help to control anxiety.

Question 6

Other factors affecting goal setting example (2 things)

Answer 6

• If the overall goal was to win the league, then the team may have to concentrate on winning more games away from home (remember homefield advantage).
• In order to achieve this the team will need to set short term goals, these could include: defensive and attacking strategies.

Question 7

Importance of goal setting and what does it help do? (8 things)

Answer 7

• Attentional focus
• Persistence on tasks
• Raising confidence and self-efficacy
• Control of anxiety and arousal
• To monitor performance
• To motivate
• Help to develop skills/strategies/tactics
• Rewards