Abstract:

Aims: The Neuro-linguistic Programming approach (NLP) refers to a distinct connection between neurological and linguistic procedures and behavioral patterns learned through planning. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of training neuro-linguistic programming strategies on self-efficiency, sport self-confidence, and performance of athletes with disabilities and veterans.

Materials & Methods: In this semi-experimental study with pre-test post-test design with control group, 30 veterans and physically-injured athletes, who were members of 2 sitting volleyball teams (Gostaresh-e-Foolade Tabriz and Shahrdarye Tabriz) were selected by purposeful sampling method and divided in experimental (15 people) and control (15 people)groups. The instruments used in this study included general self-efficiency scale, sport confidence questionnaire, and Smith and Hanford functional test. All participants trained special skills during 24 sessions over 2 months. The experimental group, besides specific volleyball exercises, completed 18 sessions (each session took 30 minutes), practicing neuro-linguistic programming strategies. The data were analyzed by SPSS 23, using multivariate covariance analysis and dependent sample t-test.

Findings: In the experimental group, sport confidence (F=33.47) and general self-efficiency (F=41.69) were significantly higher than the control group, and 65.0% and 69.5% of the changes in sport confidence and general self-efficiency were explained by NLP strategies (p<0.001) in the experimental group. Also, in the experimental group, the difference in performance was significant in the pre-test post-test based on games analysis (t=9.69) and instructors’ score (t=11.04) (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Training neuro-linguistic programming strategies increases self- efficiency, sport self-confidence, and performance of athletes with disabilities and veterans.