A qualitative exploration of sport and exercise psychology practitioners’ perceptions and experiences of using Think Aloud in applied practice

Aims: Think aloud (TA) is a tool that has been used within sport and exercise psychology research and applied contexts to understand participants’ cognitions. We aimed to explore ASEPs’ perceptions of using TA within their applied practice. Method: Following a workshop on TA, 10 ASEPs engaged in semi-structured interviews about their experiences of using TA with clients. Data were analysed via content analysis. Results: TA was used as part of the needs analysis process, and to facilitate reflection and evaluation. Considerations were highlighted: client factors (e.g., individual differences); consulting factors (i.e., teaching participants how to TA); and the client-consultant relationship (i.e., strength of the working alliance). Conclusion: This is the first study to consider ASEPs perspectives on how TA can be used within applied practice and offers considerations to ASEP’s on the use of TA as a tool within service delivery.