Challenging the ‘Myth ’ of a Spiritual Dimension in Sport Lee

This paper critiques the position of researchers and theorists who have called for greater recognition of a spiritual dimension in sport, an integration of spiritual dimensions into existing sport-related models, and applications in sport psychology consultancy (Udermann, 2000; Watson & Nesti, 2005). Definitions of spirituality and the relationship between spirituality and religion are discussed. Comparisons are made between past research using traditional and non traditional methods of enquiry. It is argued that the dominant approaches of most sports psychology consultants (promoting self-regulation and internal control) are diametrically opposed to spiritual practices where faith is placed outside of the self. Given the lack of substantive empirical evidence, it is concluded that calls for greater integration of a spiritual dimension in sport are somewhat premature, and potentially troublesome, although consultants should be sensitive to individuals ’ belief systems in order to promote a productive working alliance