Abstract
Introduction: Life coaching is a nebulous and multi-faceted term reflecting a small area of practice within the wider coaching process. The unregulated nature of coaching and fragmented use of labels for coaching outside of executive and sports contexts supported exploration of the roles and responsibilities of life coaches and regulation. Consideration of coaching in relation to the helping professional informs the exploration of helping upon coach identity and the exploration of life coach personal wellbeing.Methodology/Methods: Using a systematic approach, a literature review was conducted to investigate how life coaching is perceived through a multiple-lens of enquiry within academic contexts, whilst the desk review explores perceptions of life coaching, the structure and content of coach training and the role of voluntary organisations. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and reflective diary logs within a multiple case study design. Each case represents a holistic encapsulation of an individual life coach. Thematic analysis was conducted for each case, followed by a cross-case synthesis. COVID-19 impacted the methods used within the multiple case study and necessitated two phases of data collection.
Findings: Perceptions of life coaching in relation to other coaching and helping contexts varies according to practitioner perception. Differences between academic investigation of life coaching and practice are found in relation to how impact of practice is measured. Practitioner responsibilities include a commitment to developing self-awareness, ensuring fitness to practice and appreciation of individuality. Professional standards for practice are perceived as optional but standardisation of practice is welcomed. The values and attributes of the individual life coach forms an internal process upon life coaching. External processes include practical aspects of how life coaches chose to practice; the external processes identified do not lend to a concise definition of practice, despite extensive identification of how the case’s conduct practice in relation to theory, structure, and coaching content. Perception of personal wellbeing, self-care and the relationship to practice is varied, with individual values and attributes impacting the perceived relationship between practitioner wellbeing and practice.
Conclusion: The life coach is a facilitative helper. Progression of the industry requires the formation of an accepted identity for practice that appreciates individual difference. Identification of role and responsibilities contributes to the movement to standardisation within an unregulated industry.
| Date of Award | 10 Apr 2024 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Supervisor | Michael Snowden (Main Supervisor) & Jamie Halsall (Co-Supervisor) |