Browsing by Subject "lahjakkuus (giftedness)"

This study describes experiences of four talented women artistic gymnasts in their progress towards expertise. The background to this study was current research and theories of the development of sport talent. Talent in sports is a multidimensional concept. Present studies show that the following characteristics affect the development of talent: mental resources, physical strength and love for and commitment to the sport and training. In addition, countless hours of practice and favorable environmental factors, as well as a touch of luck, are needed. Francoys Gagné's differentiated model of giftedness and talent is used as the research frame of reference. This study is a qualitative case study, and the material was collected by autobiographical narrative research approach. Narrative involves human thoughts and experiences about their lives and how they build their identity. The narrative is way of knowing, and narrativity is generally associated with the constructivist view of knowing. As a researcher I choose this narrative research approach because in this way I can tell my interviewees' story, "a story of elite gymnasts", in a rather truthful way. I interviewed four Finnish elite gymnasts, and I asked them to tell me their gymnastics biographies. One of the four interviewees is still actively competing on the international level. The other three gymnasts have already finished their active careers as athletes. As key factors in the development of elite athletes were defined active exercise background of childhood, family support and encouragement, as well as financial aid provided by the parents, the right coach and the right team, and the experiences of success in competitions. Gymnastics had brought a lot positive content to the lives of the interviewees. The interviewees felt that sports have contributed to the development of their personality, increasing their self-confidence, perseverance and courage. The life of a young to athlete is very scheduled, and it is guided by studies and exercises, as well as set targets. As negative matters in a top athlete's life were mentioned injuries and challenges in reconciling social relations, school and training.