Exploring the efficacy of a rational emotive behaviour therapy intervention on football referees: A single case study approach

This study presents a single case study that assessed the effectiveness of a rational-emotive behaviour therapy (REBT) intervention in reducing irrational beliefs, decreasing negative, unhealthy emotions, and improving performance with a sports official. Following initial assessment, a 43-year-old male football referee participated in a 5-week REBT intervention programme. Irrational beliefs and anxiety were measured using the Irrational Beliefs Scale for Sports Officials and the Sport Anxiety Scale respectively. Following the 5-week intervention, measures of irrational beliefs and anxiety were collected at three follow-up points, taken every 6-weeks, throughout the 2023/24 football season, and again eight weeks after the conclusion of the season. Performance was assessed using observer marks from Football Association Referee Observers, and Club Marks, collected from representatives of teams refereed by the participant. Results showed a medium (d = 2.34) decrease (-43.28 %) in irrational beliefs between pre- and post-intervention stages, and a small (d = 0.67) decrease (21.97 %) in irrational beliefs between the post-intervention and retention stages. A large (d = 5.36) decrease (-31.12 %) in anxiety was reported between pre- and post-intervention stages, and a small (d = 0.18) increase (2.19 %) in anxiety was also reported between the post-intervention and retention stage. Performance enhancement was seen via a small (d = 0.26) increase (1.18 %) in Club Marks, and a medium (d = 2.09) increase (1.05 %) in observer marks. Alongside social validation interviews held with the participant, referee coach and observer, the study provides evidence to inform applied practice and supports the potential value of REBT with sports officials.