Exploring the role of socioeconomic status and psychological characteristics on talent development in an English soccer academy

Kelly, Adam L. and Williams, Craig A. and Jackson, Daniel T. and Turnnidge, Jennifer and Reeves, Matthew J. and Dugdale, James H. and Wilson, Mark R. (2023) Exploring the role of socioeconomic status and psychological characteristics on talent development in an English soccer academy. Science and Medicine in Football. pp. 1-9. ISSN 2473-3938

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Abstract

Social factors and psychological characteristics can influence selection and development in talent pathways. However, the interaction between these two factors is relatively unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the implications of socioeconomic status and psychological characteristics in English academy soccer players (n = 58; aged 11 to 16 years). To assess socioeconomic status, participants’ home postcodes were coded according to each individual’s social classification and credit rating, applying the UK General Registrar Classification system and CameoTM geodemographic database, respectively. Participants also completed the six factor Psychological Characteristics for Developing Excellence Questionnaire (PCDEQ). A classification of ‘higher-potentials’ (n = 19) and ‘lower-potentials’ (n = 19) were applied through coach potential rankings. Data were standardised using z-scores to eliminate age bias and data were analysed using independent sample t-tests. Results showed that higher-potentials derived from families with significantly lower social classifications (p = 0.014) and reported higher levels for PCDEQ Factor 3 (coping with performance and developmental pressures) (p = 0.007) compared to lower-potentials. This study can be used to support the impetus for researchers and practitioners to consider the role of social factors and psychological characteristics when selecting and developing sporting talent. For example, facilitating player-centred development within an academy and, where necessary, providing individuals with additional support.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	10.1080/24733938.2023.2213191
Dates:	Date Event 4 May 2023 Accepted 10 May 2023 Published Online
Uncontrolled Keywords:	psychological skills, talent identification, talent development, academy football
Subjects:	CAH03 - biological and sport sciences > CAH03-02 - sport and exercise sciences > CAH03-02-01 - sport and exercise sciences
Divisions:	Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences > Centre for Life and Sport Sciences (C-LASS)
Depositing User:	Gemma Tonks
Date Deposited:	21 Jun 2023 13:43
Last Modified:	21 Jun 2023 13:43
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/14486

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