John Gotwals

Dr. John Gotwals serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at Lakehead University with an adjunct appointment in Psychology, focusing on performance psychology research and undergraduate instruction.

His academic credentials include:

• PhD in Kinesiology from the University of Alberta (2006)
• MA in Psychology from Northern Arizona University (1999)
• BS in Psychology from Furman University (1996)

Dr. Gotwals' primary research investigates the paradoxical nature of perfectionism in sport and performance domains, analyzing its dual association with enhanced achievement and psychological distress through measurement frameworks, causal mechanisms, and intervention strategies. His secondary research explores green exercise (nature-based physical activity) and psychological aspects of sport injury rehabilitation, emphasizing practical applications for athletic performance and mental wellbeing.

He teaches core kinesiology courses including Psychology of Physical Activity I/II, Team Research Project, and Principles of Communication and Leadership, maintaining active office hours at SB 1003 for student consultation.