Motor skill performance as a function of imagery perspective: A practical evaluation
Abstract (summary)
Five single-subject experiments were performed to assess the effects of a long-term mental imagery intervention when applied to a well-learned motor skill. Visual and kinesthetic imagery modalities were the primary independent variables. Treatments were applied using a complex interactive motor skill. It was predicted that the interventions would facilitate performance improvements as measured by an objective scoring system based on outcome of the skill executions. It was also predicted that subjects who used visual imagery would experience self-efficacy improvements as a result of viewing a positive image of themselves on videotape.
Four male golfers practiced visual or kinesthetic imagery or both in combination with physical executions of a prescribed and repetitive full-swing golf task. A fifth subject had physical practice with no imagery treatment. Each subject performed the specified shot 1800 times over 60 sessions. The number of shots per session that landed in the target area and the total score by session were the two primary dependent variables. Self-efficacy changes associated with the visual imagery treatment constituted secondary dependent variables. Control variables included fatigue, amount of play, weather conditions, and mood. Dependent variable scores for each subject were separately plotted and visual inspection was used to detect possible changes over time in the level and/or trend of the player's performance.
Although one subject did improve by using the combined imagery modalities, no other differences were observed between baseline and treatment phases and no self-efficacy gains were noted following the introduction of the videotaped model. Weather interfered significantly with procedural flow and undermined the overall continuity of the sessions, making it unwise to draw conclusions from the study. Other factors that may adversely influence outcome were discussed in terms of their probable impact on subject's performances. Issues of imagery ability and imagery content were reexamined in light of the current results.
These results do not necessarily discount the validity of the ideas that gave rise to the present study. Recommendations were offered as to how methodological changes could enhance the further study of long-term imagery interventions with previously learned motor skills.
Indexing (details)
Behaviorial sciences;
Behavioral psychology
0384: Behavioral psychology