The Power and Control Wheel: Coercion Pt 1

This week on The Mindbuffs Podcast:

Mat is joined by special guest, Lindsay Piper, a sports psychologist and expert in performance dynamics, to delve into the often-overlooked topic of coercion and control in sports. Lindsay brings a wealth of knowledge on how power dynamics shape interactions and the profound effects they have on individuals.

Mat and Lindsay are back to explore the Power and Control Wheel further, focusing on how power differentials create opportunities for coercion. They begin by defining coercion and control, discussing how these dynamics play out in sports. They then highlight the distinction between intentional and unintentional coercion, providing insights into how coercion can manifest through ultimatums, isolation, and manipulative language.

Mat shares real-life examples of coercion, revealing how such practices can impact athletes mental, emotional, and physical health. They also explore the intersectional impacts of coercion, noting that marginalized individuals might experience these dynamics differently, with additional pressures or vulnerabilities.

The podcast offers practical advice on how to mitigate the effects of coercion and foster a culture of respect and autonomy. Both Mat and Lindsay provide strategies for addressing coercion in sports settings, including the importance of training and awareness for coaches. Mat and Lindsay also discuss how isolation, whether intentional or unintentional, impacts athletes' mental health and overall performance.

Tune in to this insightful episode of the Mindbuffs Podcast to understand the pervasive nature of coercion and control and how creating a supportive environment can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.