Cultural perspectives to sport psychology: Experiences of working with national teams in Botswana

Abstract

This manuscript shares experiences and methods used when consulting as a sport psychologist in Botswana. Authors used notes and observations made by the first author when he consulted with athletes and their entourages at three major games/championships (Olympic Games, Africa Games, and Africa Senior Track and Field Championships) and three training camps in preparation for the Olympic Games. Authors observed context specific approaches, a difference in conceptualizations of mental skills in the Setswana culture, and general cultural and subcultural adaptations. For example, directly translating some mental skills (e.g., self-talk) may result in unintended meanings that can confuse athletes. In addition, some athletes and their entourages may believe in engaging a sangoma (a spiritual healer) or use muti (traditional medicine or a talisman) to enhance performance. Therefore, it is important for sport psychologists to have deep knowledge of cultural customs, language, and organizational cultures (power dynamics in the organization) when working with athletes in Botswana.

Keywords: Botswana, culture, role expectations, spiritual assistance, translations