Abstract
Experience sampling methods (ESMs) allow researchers to capture variability in day-to-day human experience through repeated collection of self-report measures within or across days. Although ESMs are frequently featured in health and exercise psychology research, it is unclear how they have been employed in the context of sport. This systematic scoping review aimed to characterize the use of ESMs in sport psychology research.
Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we searched three databases for English peer-reviewed studies that used ESMs, as well as daily diaries, ecological momentary assessments, or ambulatory assessments. The studies needed to involve psychological topics in sport and involved data from coaches, athletes, parents, or fans. We recorded characteristics of the study sample, design, measures, and topic.
The search yielded 961 studies, of which 49 met final inclusion criteria. The included studies examined the experiences of sport participants (n = 38), spectators (n = 6), coaches (n = 4), and parents (n = 1). Nineteen studies collected data 3+ times per event (day, game, or practice), eight collected data twice per event, whereas 21 collected data once per event or less. Prominent topics examined included emotions (n = 23), stress and coping (n = 9), social constructs (n = 6), injury recovery (n = 4), and addiction (n = 3).
Compared to related fields, sport psychology research has made limited use of ESM designs. Sport studies have generally gravitated towards ‘daily diaries’ to examine athletes’ emotional experiences. We will discuss considerations and opportunities for using ESMs in sport psychology research.
