Enhancing our Understanding of the Potential Violation of Sexual Boundaries in Sport Psychology Consultancy

Abstract

This article discusses issues surrounding the potential violation of sexual boundaries in sport psychology consultancy and critically evaluates the current state of knowledge in the field. Limited discussion and research relating to this ethical issue exists within sport psychology; the discussion that has occurred has mainly focused on erotic transference and countertransference (Andersen, 2005). Research and knowledge from clinical psychology, counseling psychology, and psychotherapy proffers ideas for discussion and research into the factors that precipitate sexual boundary violations. The relevance of the controversial practice of touch as a therapeutic tool and a stimulus for sexual boundary violations is considered, alongside implications for the training of neophyte practitioners through role-playing, peer support, and supervision.

Sexual Violence and the Coach–Athlete Relationship—a Scoping Review From Sport Sociological and Sport Psychological Perspectives

“…Within the context of counseling in the sport psychology field, interpersonal boundaries define the roles of the persons in a relationship (e.g., between coaches and athletes; Moles et al, 2016 ). In more detail, interpersonal boundaries determine appropriate and inappropriate behaviors or activities for certain roles in this relationship (Little and Harwood, 2010 ). This determination of interpersonal boundaries prevents role ambiguity (e.g., crossing role-specific boundaries) and thus boundary violations (e.g., sexual boundary violations, such as kissing, sexual touching, and dating; see Moles et al, 2016 ).…”

Desires and taboos: Sexual relationships between coaches and athletes

“…The sport psychology literature also raises issues of erotic desire and taboo regarding sport psychologistathlete romantic attraction. [25][26][27] Coaches and sport psychologists, as professional authorities with responsibilities for athlete well-being and sport performance, may share some similarities in relationships to athletes. If sport psychologists are licensed psychologists, then practitioner-athlete sexual relationships are broadly prohibited and strictly regulated by legal authority to protect the welfare of the clients.…”