How do athletes with low self-confidence perceive their coach's supportiveness compared to those with high self-confidence?

Athletes with low self-confidence tend to perceive their coach's supportiveness as less than those with higher self-confidence. This perception can stem from a variety of factors related to self-esteem and self-worth. When an athlete lacks confidence in their abilities, they may interpret feedback or support from their coach through a negative lens. They might see constructive criticism as a personal attack or feel undeserving of praise, leading them to conclude that their coach is not supportive.

On the other hand, athletes with high self-confidence are more likely to view the same level of coach support as affirming and helpful. They can recognize the difference between constructive feedback and personal criticism, and they tend to feel more empowered by their coach's support. This difference in perspective reinforces the idea that an athlete's self-confidence influences how they interpret external support, such as that provided by a coach.