Who is recognized as the "father of sport psychology"?

The title of the "father of sport psychology" is attributed to Coleman Griffith due to his pioneering work and significant contributions to the field. In the early 20th century, he was one of the first to systematically study the psychological aspects of sports and exercise. Griffith established the first laboratory in the United States dedicated to the study of sport psychology and conducted research on athletes that laid the foundation for future exploration in the area.

His work emphasized the importance of mental processes in athletics, exploring topics like motivation, competition anxiety, and the psychological aspects of performance. Furthermore, Griffith authored influential texts that provided insights into the relationship between psychological factors and athletic performance, solidifying his legacy in the field.

Norman Triplett, while significant in the history of psychology, particularly for his early experiments on social facilitation and performance, does not hold the same comprehensive role in the establishment of sport psychology as Griffith. Albert Bandura is well-known for his work in social learning theory and self-efficacy but is not primarily focused on sport psychology. Keith Henschen has made valuable contributions to the field, particularly in the area of applied sport psychology, but he is not recognized as the foundational figure that Griffith is. Thus, Griffith’s early explorations and writings make him