A Pygmalion-prone coach tends to give low-expectancy athletes less frequent reinforcement. True or False?

The statement is true because it aligns with the concepts of the Pygmalion effect, which refers to the phenomenon where higher expectations from leaders or coaches can lead to improved performance in their athletes. When a coach is Pygmalion-prone, they may unconsciously hold lower expectations for certain athletes, often based on prior judgments or biases. This can lead them to provide less frequent reinforcement, encouragement, and feedback to those athletes, which negatively impacts the athletes' confidence and performance.

By not reinforcing low-expectancy athletes, the coach creates a cycle of low motivation and performance, further cementing their low expectations. This behavior can hinder the development of athletes who may possess potential but are not receiving the support they need to thrive. Thus, affirming the statement highlights a critical aspect of the relationship between expectations and athletic performance in sports psychology.