The impact of power posing on self-efficacy and dispositional optimism in horse-assisted coaching

Abstract

ABSTRACT Although both power posing and equine-assisted coaching have received growing attention in recent years and accordingly attract more research, intensive scientific debate is still young. This study investigates the impact of power posing and inner images in terms of imagination on self-efficacy in the setting of horse-assisted coaching using a quasi-experimental test design with repeated measures. Participants (N = 149), aged between 16 and 78 years (M = 29.38, SD = 13.12, 80% female), belonged either to the intervention group (N = 62) or the control group (N = 87). Intervention group subjects received a horse-assisted coaching with power posing exercises. Self-efficacy was measured two times by using the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale and dispositional optimism was assessed using the revised version of the Life Orientation Test. Results show a highly significant increase in self-efficacy and dispositional optimism through a horse-assisted coaching with power posing exercises. The change in the self-efficacy represents a strong effect. Gender and horse experience of the subjects (intervention group) did not significantly influence the change of the selfefficacy between the measuring points. Long-term effects and the different factors of action in equine-assisted coaching, which has hardly been researched so far, as well as gender- and age-specific differences should be examined more closely in follow-up studies. Implications for practitioners statement The findings of the study support the use of power posing exercises and inner images in horse-assisted coaching practice. Horse-assisted coaching can demonstrably empower clients using the exercises presented in the study, given that it is carried out by coaches with a professional background. Horse-assisted coaching has the potential to enable clients to develop their self-efficacy and dispositional optimism.