Critically assess the relevance of self-esteem to achieve a Essay

Critically assess the relevance of self-esteem to achieve a consistently high performance in sport - Essay Example While this may seem easy for some, for most it is a matter of time and practice. Gaining sufficient self-esteem or self confidence normally takes months or years to develop; and this is in general compounded by achievements and fame that separates an individual from his contemporaries or peers. Although some might say that destiny or fate has something to do with having self-esteem, the actual truth is that athletes who excel in their chosen skills have a very supportive group in the person of their respective coaches and family (parents). In relation to the universal theory, self-esteem is likewise perceived from the expectancy value theory that best describes motivation or stimulus as the main result of a person’s personal principle about his or her actions and the importance they place on the consequence of such actions (Pajares, 1996). To make it simpler, the expectancy value theory regarding self-esteem is that an individual performs an action because he or she has a reas on for doing this. As such the result or outcome of the actions which an individual does is anticipated by the doer making it quite valuable and desirable. Hence the drive or motivation is a factor considered by most as the core behind why particular actions or deeds are sometime carried out. In connection to sports, athletes do their best to constantly perform to perfection or always aim to win in a game. The reason or core behind such motivation is that they will eventually achieve self-esteem by being proud of their performance since everybody who has seen them win their game or achieve a high score will praise them, making them adequately confident that they will win the next game again against their rivals or opponents. In most cases, having experiences in sports generally boosts self-esteem. These experiences often have an impact on the psychological and emotional aspects of athletes since sports does not only mean playing the game, but having social interactions with coaches, teammates, sport officials and parents (Health Promotion, 2008). Hence, self-esteem in addition to its theoretical definition is generally defined as the feeling of having self-respect and confidence. Undeniably, when one feels good about himself or herself, he or she is able to perform well and cope up with the stresses of having to win or lose after a game. Being able to deal with winning or losing in sports can have the positive effects: 1) reduced anxiety, 2) an optimistic perception of life, 3) deal with societal pressures, 4) avoid engaging in drugs, and 5) have lesser interpersonal dilemmas (Health Promotion, 2008). However, athletes or children active in sports who possess a pessimistic or negative self-esteem will usually end up engaging in drugs, have eating disorders, are bullied socially and are often depressed (Health Promotion, 2008). The coaches and parents as mentioned earlier play a vital role in the lives of individuals (children or young athletes) who are regular ly engage in sport activities. These people can help improve sports performance since they provide support and encouragement for the development of a skill and help build a positive social perception. A coach-athlete relationship requires shared respect that will aid in the development