Abstract 1: Sources and channels of (mis)information on mental performance in sport: A pilot study of Instagram content

Social media is a popular and cost-effective means for mental performance consultants (MPCs) to provide information to athletes, coaches, and parents (i.e., followers). Although social media can be useful for disseminating evidence-informed strategies aimed at supporting performance for athletes, little-to-no research has been done to assess the quality of the (mis)information provided. One challenge is that information on social media can be disseminated by various sources (e.g., certified MPCs, and non-certified practitioners), and through channels (i.e. modes or social media platforms) that have their own information constraints. The aim of this pilot study is to explore the quality of (mis)information from Instagram posts from popular North American MPCs within a six-month span through content analyses. Preliminary results demonstrate an array of challenges that relate to the accuracy and oversimplification of information being disseminated. Misinformation in particular can pose a threat to the credibility of the work that MPCs provide for performers. Practitioners should use caution when using social media given the implications that come with oversimplifying context-specific and complex processes into bite sized pieces (i.e., Instagram posts). Similarly, athletes, coaches, and parents should also use caution when navigating sources (i.e., individuals), and using information channels such as social media as the only source of information to inform training.