Step 1 in getting started with reversal theory is to note that reversal theory is a general theory of psychology which utilises a structural phenomenological approach. In addition, the theory considers human behaviour to be inherently inconsistent and argues that reversals between paired metamotivational states form the basis of human personality, emotion and motivation (see Figure 2.1). Step 2 involves examining the basic features of reversal theory, and the technical terms they have been assigned, in more detail. Where examples have been provided to illustrate concepts from reversal theory, they have been taken from athletes’ experience in sport.