On The Couch: Terrell Owens

Psychology of Sports-Dr Richard Lustberg

Terrell Owens has just been suspended for the season, which should not come as any surprise. Owens who has to put it mildly had a troubled existence in Philly, appears to be confronting a number of psychological issues.

Players like Owens are actually very insecure. Their need to speak out, as well as their on field antics (and Owens has a long history in this arena as well) are often fueled by their deep seeded need for recognition. Keep in mind Owens complained that his 100th touchdown catch was not properly celebrated.

Moreover, Owens has played with an Eagle team that has featured a lot of talent. Perhaps his need to separate himself from this group and be seen as the elite player, has also caused him to speak out in a less than enhancing manner.

Donovan McNabb is a pretty fair quarterback to say the least, and has earned his stripes in the game. The fact that Owens would make McNabb a target speaks to his own fragility.

People like Owens have great difficulty dealing with any slight or criticism, which makes walking away from an altercation with the likes of a Hugh Douglas almost impossible.

All in the service of making him feel better about himself.

What a shame. Owens' body of work and articulate persona have gotten him a ton of accolades and attention. Apparently this was not enough.

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