POWER AND DISCOURSE IN COACHING

Abstract

This study aimed to build on previous research into the areas of power and discourse in coaching, underpinned by the socio-cultural concepts of power in particular Bourdieu and Capital and Giddens and the Dialectic of Control. There has been some research on the area however there is the need for further research to develop the understanding of a complex, social dynamic in the coach-athlete relationship. The research used focus groups of a small sample of athletes and coaches which generated data that was interpreted using the concepts of capital, dialectic of control and discourse. Findings show that there are both actual and perceived resources available to coach and athlete and the presentation of the self affects the value and impact of the perceived resources. This study should be used to allow for further research in the area to be conducted to improve the understanding of the complex, social dynamic of the coach-athlete relationship.