The Effect of Financial Contingencies on Golf Performance

The current study investigated the effects of monetary contingencies on the performance of experienced golfers in the natural setting. Utilizing a multi-element design reversal design counter balanced across tasks, investigators exposed participants to contingencies involving the ability to earn or lose money, based on performance. Results yielded a significant detriment to performance when monetary contingencies were implemented for non-professional golfers. Contrasting results in the performance of one professional golfer yielded no significant difference in performance across conditions. Results suggest that monetary wagers affect performance, and furthermore, that performance of amateur players may be more easily influenced by such contingencies.