17 votes

A pat on the back statistically improves free throw numbers in basketball

2 comments

  1. [2]
    asukii
    Link
    My first thought on this is, how much is correlation over causation - like is it really the touch that's making the difference, or is it being in a supportive team that makes a difference (and...

    My first thought on this is, how much is correlation over causation - like is it really the touch that's making the difference, or is it being in a supportive team that makes a difference (and supportive team members are more likely to give you a friendly pat on the back)? I wouldn't be surprised if the premise of the article is true, but that's one thing that jumped out to me immediately.

    8 votes
    1. Nivlak
      Link Parent
      You will pretty commonly see basketball players high five teammates after a free throw. It’s been going on for years, likely more tradition now than anything but positive reinforcement does have...

      You will pretty commonly see basketball players high five teammates after a free throw. It’s been going on for years, likely more tradition now than anything but positive reinforcement does have its merits.

      2 votes