Evidence-Based Coaching Practices Flashcards

A coach applies the WOOP method (Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan) with a client. Which psychological mechanism does WOOP leverage, according to its research base?

Answer: Mental contrasting, which activates energization only when success is feasible

Gabriele Oettingen's research shows mental contrasting — pairing desired outcomes with realistic obstacles — selectively energizes goal pursuit where success is achievable.

Research on feedback in coaching suggests which practice yields the most constructive client response?

Answer: Asking the client to self-assess before offering the coach's observation

Evidence shows that self-assessment before external feedback activates intrinsic motivation, reduces defensiveness, and increases receptivity to coaching observations.

Which theory explains why celebrating small wins during coaching produces sustained momentum toward larger goals?

Answer: Progress principle — small wins produce positive inner work life, fueling further engagement

Teresa Amabile's Progress Principle research shows that recognizing incremental progress triggers positive emotions and motivation, creating an upward spiral.

An IAC-certified coach is designing a group coaching program and wants to apply evidence-based practices. Which feature of group coaching has the strongest empirical support for enhancing individual outcomes?

Answer: Peer learning and social accountability within the group

Research on group coaching consistently shows that peer accountability and shared learning amplify individual outcomes beyond what solo coaching achieves.

The construct validity of a coaching assessment tool refers to which property?

Answer: The degree to which the tool measures the theoretical construct it claims to measure

Construct validity confirms the tool actually assesses the intended psychological or behavioral construct, such as resilience or emotional intelligence, not something else.

Evidence-based coaching literature distinguishes between 'coaching for performance' and 'coaching for development.' Which statement accurately reflects the research distinction?

Answer: Performance coaching targets specific short-term goals; developmental coaching focuses on long-term growth and identity shifts

Research differentiates performance coaching's focus on near-term skill gaps from developmental coaching's aim to transform the client's capacity, mindset, and self-concept.

Which practice is most consistent with evidence-based ethics in coaching when a client discloses a potential safety risk to themselves?

Answer: Pause coaching, assess severity, and refer to appropriate mental health or crisis resources

Ethical and evidence-based practice requires immediate duty-of-care response: assess risk, suspend coaching if needed, and connect the client with qualified crisis or clinical support.