Integrating psychological assessment in young sports coach selection: A systematic literature review

Abstract

This study reviews key psychological variables influencing the success of young sports coaches, including personality traits, leadership styles, emotional intelligence, athletic intelligence, and motivation. A systematic bibliographic review analyses validated assessment tools for these variables. Integrating psychological evaluations with traditional technical and tactical criteria is essential to improve recruitment decisions and athlete performance outcomes. Personality dimensions such as conscientiousness and agreeableness, and leadership styles like transformational and democratic approaches, strongly predict coaching efficacy. Emotional intelligence is crucial for managing stress and communication, while athletic intelligence supports dynamic decision-making. Motivation, especially intrinsic motivation, underpins coaches’ commitment to ongoing development and athletes' wellbeing. The review discusses challenges including cultural adaptation and the need for longitudinal validation of psychological instruments. A multidimensional evaluation framework is proposed to enhance objectivity, reliability, and predictive validity in coach selection. Furthermore, the continuous development of psychological skills within coach education programs is advocated, with a focus on emotional regulation, leadership adaptability, and the sustainability of motivation to foster resilient and effective coaching workforces. This research promotes the holistic integration of psychological competencies with technical skills, thereby advancing coach-athlete relationships and superior team performance.