What term describes when a coach's expectations predict an athlete's level of achievement?

The term that describes how a coach's expectations can influence an athlete's level of achievement is the self-fulfilling prophecy. This concept suggests that if a coach believes in a player's potential and communicates that belief, the athlete is more likely to perform at a higher level. This phenomenon occurs because the athlete internalizes the coach's expectations and strives to meet them. The positive feedback loop created by belief and performance can greatly enhance an athlete's confidence and motivation, leading to improved outcomes.

In contrast, if a coach harbors negative expectations, this can also manifest in the athlete's performance, often resulting in decreased motivation and lower achievement. Thus, the self-fulfilling prophecy illustrates the powerful impact of beliefs and expectations on actual performance outcomes. Understanding this principle is crucial in sports psychology, as it emphasizes the importance of fostering a positive and supportive coaching environment for athletes.