Factors influencing talent development: Stories of four Hong Kong elite sportspersons

Abstract

This article reports on a small-scale qualitative study that investigates how intrapersonal and environmental factors shape the beliefs and experiences of four talented Hong Kong sportsperons. Research questions focus on how their talents were identified and developed, obstacles they encountered, and the major influences on their development. Semi-structured interviews were conducted examining five key areas: participants’ perceptions of their natural ability in in sports, self-motivation, coaching opportunities, family influences, and school factors. Results indicated that the interviewees tended not to perceive themselves as “naturally” talented (or “very special”), and believed that all five areas had influenced the development of their talent, both positively and negatively. The data are interpreted from a Hong Kong-Chinese perspective.