McGreary, MJ (2020) PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATE PORTFOLIO. Doctoral thesis, Liverpool John Moores University.

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Abstract

This thesis demonstrates the development of a neophyte sport psychology practitioner’s journey through a professional doctorate. In particular, the thesis provides a reflective demonstration of enhanced competence in ethical practice, consultancy, dissemination and research.
Three applied consultancy case studies and reflective diary entries highlight the challenges faced as a trainee sport psychology practitioner, with a particular focus on the development of a professional philosophy. In particular, a lack of self-awareness regarding personal values and beliefs and often incongruently delivering practitioner-led sessions, with an emphasis on ‘needing to offer something meaningful for clients’. Following a period of self-examination (Simons & Andersen, 1995) and discovery (Corlett, 1966) the author began to develop a more congruent philosophy of practice, focused on a client-led, counselling based approach.
The author also demonstrates anxiety related to competence, particularly during the early stages of development; this is in line with contemporary practitioner development research
(e.g., Tod, Andersen & Marchant, 2009).
Two empirical papers and a systematic review were also conducted. The author often adopted the position of practitioner-researcher when conducting research. The challenges associated with such positions are discussed, such as challenges to identity (Champ, 2019). Finally, a
dissemination case study and reflections highlight the delivery of psychoeducational sessions to a variety of populations. Through this, the author’s pedagogical approach develops from an authoritarian, traditional lecture-based approach (Girgin & Stevens, 2005), to a more collaborative learning experience, placing the learner at the centre of the process (Postareff & Lindblom-Ylanne, 2008).

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	professional doctorate, practitioner development, neophyte psychologist, applied practice
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV Recreation Leisure > GV561 Sports
Divisions:	Sport and Exercise Sciences
Date Deposited:	08 Sep 2020 11:57
Last Modified:	07 Sep 2022 13:42
DOI or ID number:	10.24377/LJMU.t.00013586
Supervisors:	Morris, R and Eubank, M
URI:	https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/13586

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