A Review of Scientific Progress in Flow in Sport and Exercise: Normal Science, Crisis, and a Progressive Shift. Issue 3 (3rd July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Swann, Christian; Piggott, David; Schweickle, Matthew; Vella, Stewart A.
• Is Part Of: Journal of applied sport psychology. Volume 30:Issue 3(2018)
• Page Start: 249
• Page End: 271
• Publication Date: 2018-07-03
• Subjects: Sports -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Exercise -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; 796.019
• DOI: 10.1080/10413200.2018.1443525
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1041-3200

Abstract

Abstract : Flow is highly relevant and desirable in sport and exercise. Drawing on ideas from iconic philosophers of science—Thomas Kuhn, Karl Popper, and Imre Lakatos—we argue that research in this field has followed a pattern of "normal science." With a series of accumulating criticisms and "anomalies, " we propose flow research is approaching a "crisis point." We highlight problems with research based on the traditional nine-dimensions conceptualization of flow. Then, drawing on the work of Popper and Lakatos, we offer theoretical and methodological suggestions for developing a more progressive and practically useful theory for researchers and practitioners.