Introduction to Sport Psychology and Professional Practices

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts from the Introduction to Sport Psychology and Professional Practices.

Sport Psychology

The scientific study of human behavior in sport and exercise, as well as the practical application of that knowledge.

Roles of Sports Psychologists

Research, teaching, and applied consulting to help individuals and teams manage demands and enhance wellbeing.

B = f(P,E)

A formula indicating that behavior (B) is a function of the person (P) and the environment (E).

Norman Triplett

A key historical figure in sport psychology known for his study on social facilitation among bikers.

Coleman Griffith

Known as the father of modern sports psychology, he established the first research lab and authored 25 research articles.

Scientific Method in Sports Psychology

A 4-step process involving 1) Develop the Problem, 2) Formulate Hypotheses, 3) Gather Data, and 4) Analyze/Interpret Results.

Common Sense Knowing

Based on intuition/speculation; quick but not reliable.

Practical Experience

Gained through observations and case studies; provides holistic and innovative insights but is prone to biases.

Science in Sports Psychology

Involves systematic, controlled, empirical investigations of relationships; offers reliable but may be too reductionistic.

Personality Trait Approach

Focuses on stable attributes of individuals that are consistent and generalizable across situations.

Attribution Theory

The explanation of one’s behavior or effort, particularly reasons for success or failure.

Motivation (Two-Part Definition)

The direction and intensity of effort toward achieving a task.

Arousal

A general state of activation ranging from deep sleep to extreme excitement.

Anxiety

A negative emotional state characterized by nervousness, worry, and increased physiological activation.

Drive Theory

Suggests a linear relationship between anxiety and performance; not well-supported in literature.

Inverted U Hypothesis

Suggests that optimal performance occurs at moderate arousal levels, with poor performance at too low or too high arousal.

Coping Strategies

Cognitive and behavioral efforts to manage specific demands that exceed resources; includes problem-focused and emotion-focused strategies.

Feedback

Information received about a behavior that can influence performance.

Intrinsic Motivation

The motivation to engage in an activity for its inherent satisfaction rather than for some separable consequence.