This episode explores the application of Motivational Interviewing (MI) in the world of elite sports. Against the backdrop of Dr. Jeff Breckon's career transitioning from a focus on behavior change in healthcare to sports psychology, the discussion highlights the challenges of applying MI in a high-pressure, results-oriented environment. More significantly, the conversation reveals that traditional coaching methods often prioritize fixing problems over reinforcing strengths, potentially neglecting the athlete's well-being. For instance, the high-risk nature of sports like horse racing and the prevalence of disordered eating among athletes are discussed as areas where MI could offer a more holistic approach. As the discussion pivoted to systemic issues, the need for a culture shift within sports organizations was emphasized, advocating for a more collaborative and empathetic approach that prioritizes the athlete's overall well-being alongside performance enhancement. This means a greater emphasis on building therapeutic alliances and integrating MI with other therapeutic techniques, such as CBT, to create a sustainable model for athlete development and long-term success.
