Chatbots in Applied Sport Psychology: Opportunities and Challenges for Practitioners: Chatbots in Sport Psychology

The increasing use of chatbots presents a research opportunity for applied sport psychologists. This article explores the potential role of domain specific chatbots within sport psychology practice. The AI field is outlined before focusing on chatbots. Different types of chatbots, architecture and basic features are outlined. Existing reviews and applications of chatbots with sub-clinical and clinical populations in applied psychology are analysed before considering the implications for applied sport psychologists (ASPs). Common features and demands of the ASPs role in team sport settings are described before outlining reasons for the current limited research and discussion among ASPs around chatbots. The article describes chatbot user research in health psychology, the advantages and disadvantages of using chatbots, and the practical and ethical challenges involved. Regulation issues and lack of empirical evidence regarding efficacy for sporting populations, necessitates a cautious approach. Ethical chatbot integration within human centric service delivery will require comprehensive training for sport psychology professionals, athletes, and coaches to ensure these tools complement human expertise for holistic athlete development. Future research investigating chatbot perceptions and usage among athletes and coaches is suggested along with an AI literacy curriculum for ASPs.