What significant contribution did Franklin Henry make to the field of sport and exercise psychology? Established the first academic society for sport psychology Developed the first sport psychology laboratory Largely responsible for the scientific development of the field and trained numerous students who assumed administrative positions Conducted the first experiment on social facilitation in sports
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Franklin Henry made significant contributions to the field of sport and exercise psychology, primarily through the development of the first sport psychology laboratory and his pivotal role in shaping the scientific foundation of the field.
Henry is best known for developing the first sport psychology laboratory at the University of California, Berkeley, in the 1940s. This laboratory was a crucial step in making sport psychology a formal academic discipline. It allowed for controlled research on various psychological aspects of sports, including motivation, performance, and social dynamics. By establishing this lab, Henry was able to lay the groundwork for future empirical studies in the field, shifting it from a theoretical and anecdotal area of study to one grounded in scientific research.
In addition to his work in establishing the first laboratory, Henry was largely responsible for the scientific development of the field. He trained numerous students who went on to take administrative and academic positions, thus spreading the influence of sport psychology and helping to develop it as a formal area of study. His students became leaders in the field, further advancing research and applying psychological principles to sports settings.
Although Henry is not credited with conducting the first experiment on social facilitation in sports, his work in integrating psychology with sports was essential in forming the foundation for later studies, including those on social facilitation. Henry’s work significantly impacted the development of sport psychology, shaping the ways in which we understand athletes’ mental states, performance, and training.
Thus, Franklin Henry’s major contribution to sport and exercise psychology was in establishing the first sport psychology laboratory, promoting scientific inquiry in the field, and training the next generation of scholars and professionals in the discipline.
