Date of Award

5-2015

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Kinesiology

First Advisor

Paul Wright

Second Advisor

Cynthia Schroeder

Third Advisor

Tom Godar

Abstract

The purpose of this research study is to develop an understanding of how athletic trainers identify themselves in a vocational context. Additionally, this research is designed to explore perceptions of self-confidence. competence, and what attitudes athletic trainers have towards the practice of sport psychology within their professional field. Athletic trainers are often looked at as the primary medical professionals who provide care for athletes immediately following injury. evaluate and treat athletic injuries. assist with rehabilitation. design return to play exercise programs and have numerous other job requirements. The Athletic Training Identity Measurement Scale (ATIMS) was developed as a tool that can be used to evaluate athletic trainers and the ideals in which they hold true pertaining to their profession. Athletic trainers who participate in the ATlMS will subjective y determine what aspects of their job are the most important to them, and ultimately predict their "vocational identity."

Athletic trainers typically spend large amounts of time with athletes under conditions that promote personal interaction and trust, thus they are professionally in a position to provide counseling to athletes on a variety of issues (Moulton, Molstad. & Tomer, 1997). The time that the athlete and athletic trainer spend together creates a unique relationship that is different from that of coaches and even teammates. Certified athletic trainers have a higher vocational identity, express more confidence, competence and feel more trained in sport psychology than undergraduate students, when asked by the ATlMS. Athletic trainers and undergraduate students a like, report a lack of professional preparation in the area of sport psychology when compared to the importance of psychological issues. Psychology classes should be brought to the attention of the officials in charge of athletic training programs at the national level.

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