Why develop a proficiency in sport psychology?
The large and diverse discipline of psychology has only recently begun to recognize the field of sport psychology. Graduate study in applied sport psychology has occurred over the past number of years primarily in departments of kinesiology or physical education. Consequently, many psychologists are unaware of this field and its history, research, and practice. When APAs Committee for the Recognition of Specialties and Proficiencies in Professional Psychology (CRSPPP) developed a method of recognizing particular areas of expertise as proficiencies, Division 47 decided to submit an application for recognition of the field of sport psychology as a proficiency. This decision was designed to accomplish two goals: (1) assist the general public in recognizing the appropriate services and skills of psychologists who describe themselves as sport psychologists; (2) assist psychologists in recognizing and understanding the knowledge and skills considered appropriate for psychologists practicing
