Effect of Training Neuro-linguistic Programming Strategies on Self-efficiency, Sport Self-confidence, and Performance of Athletes with Disabilities and Veterans

Abstract

Aims The Neuro-linguistic Programming approach (NLP) refers to a distinct connection between neurological and linguistic procedures and behavioral patterns learned through planning. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of training neuro-linguistic programming strategies on self-efficiency, sport self-confidence, and performance of athletes with disabilities and veterans. Materials & Methods In this semi-experimental study with pre-test post-test design with control group, 30 veterans and physically-injured athletes, who were members of 2 sitting volleyball teams (Gostaresh-e-Foolade Tabriz and Shahrdarye Tabriz) were selected by purposeful sampling method and divided in experimental (15 people) and control (15 people) groups. The instruments used in this study included general self-efficiency scale, sport confidence questionnaire, and Smith and Hanford functional test. All participants trained special skills during 24 sessions over 2 months. The experimental group, besides specific volleyball exercises, completed 18 sessions (each session took 30 minutes), practicing neurolinguistic programming strategies. The data were analyzed by SPSS 23, using multivariate covariance analysis and dependent sample t-test. Findings In the experimental group, sport confidence (F=33.47) and general self-efficiency (F=41.69) were significantly higher than the control group, and 65.0% and 69.5% of the changes in sport confidence and general self-efficiency were explained by NLP strategies (p<0.001) in the experimental group. Also, in the experimental group, the difference in performance was significant in the pre-test post-test based on games analysis (t=9.69) and instructors’ score (t=11.04) (p<0.001). Conclusion Training neuro-linguistic programming strategies increases self- efficiency, sport self-confidence, and performance of athletes with disabilities and veterans.