Psychologist and non-psychologist coaches: A qualitative exploration of qualification on the coaching relationship

McCoy, Lorraine (2021) Psychologist and non-psychologist coaches: A qualitative exploration of qualification on the coaching relationship. Undergraduate thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

Coaching is a fast growing industry with a recent survey estimating there are currently over 53,000 practising coaches worldwide. Research has shown that coaching is a positive intervention in many contexts from executive coaching to life or personal coaching. The scientific literature is inconclusive on whether or not a psychological qualification is a necessary criteria for effective coaching. Research has shown that whether a coach has a psychology qualification is a factor considered by those seeking coaching. It has also been shown that the coaching relationship is one of the most influential factors on good coaching outcomes. The aim of the current research is to explore the impact of having a qualification in psychology on the quality of the coaching relationship from the point of view of the coach. The research was conducted using a qualitative method approach by way of interviewing both psychologist coaches and non-psychologist coaches. In total 9 participants were interviewed, 5 psychologist coaches and 4 non-psychologist coaches and a thematic analysis of the interviews conducted. The findings revealed four main themes that the participants indicated most influence the relationship with the coachee. These key themes were identified as a) the coach’s understanding of themselves; b) the coach’s understanding of the coachee; c) having defined boundaries and d) the willingness of the coachee to engage. There were mixed views on the importance of a qualification in psychology on the quality of the coaching relationship. All participants were agreed upon the coach’s understanding of themselves as the most important factor. The implications of this are discussed.

Item Type:	Thesis (Undergraduate)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > Psychology H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management > Human Resource Management > Coaching
Divisions:	School of Business > BA (Honours) in Psychology
Depositing User:	Clara Chan
Date Deposited:	13 Aug 2021 10:20
Last Modified:	16 Sep 2021 15:21
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/4953

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