2060 test 2

Why is communication essential in sport and exercise?

It is necessary for motivation, improves performance, and supports personal growth.

What does John Thompson mean by “you cannot motivate without communicating”?

Motivation depends on clear communication; without it, motivation cannot happen.

What is the main idea behind Red Auerbach quote?

What matters most is how the message is received, not just what is said.

What are the main purposes of communication?

Persuasion, evaluation, information, motivation, and problem solving.

What is the difference between content and relational communication?

Content = the message itself
Relational = how the message is interpreted emotionally

What is interpersonal communication?

Communication between two or more people

What is intrapersonal communication?

Self-talk or internal communication.

Why is nonverbal communication important?

It makes up 50–70% of communication and strongly influences meaning.

Why should you convey rationales?

Helps others understand why decisions are made.

What is the difference between empathy and sympathy?

Empathy = understanding feelings
Sympathy = feeling sorry for someone

Why is using a positive approach important?

Encourages motivation and builds better relationships.

Why is consistency in discipline important?

Builds trust and fairness.

What makes a verbal message effective?

Clear, concise, and delivered at the right time and place.

Why is trust important in communication?

It ensures messages are interpreted correctly.

Why are nonverbal messages powerful?

They are harder to hide and often reveal true feelings.

What are examples of nonverbal communication?

Body position, facial expression, tone of voice, and touch.

Why is it important to “own your message”?

Shows responsibility and honesty.

Why should you separate fact from emotion (friction)?

Prevents misunderstandings and conflict.

Why focus on one issue at a time?

Improves clarity and understanding.

Why avoid hidden agendas?

Promotes trust and transparency.

Why check for feedback?

Confirms the message was understood correctly

What is active listening?

Fully focusing, understanding, and responding to the speaker.

What are key active listening skills?

Asking questions, paraphrasing, giving feedback, and observing cues.

What is a common mistake in listening?

Confusing hearing with actual hearing

What is empathy and why is it important?

Understanding others’ feelings; it is essential for effective communication.

Why is it important to get to know athletes/students personally?

Helps better understand their thoughts and feelings.

What is a caring climate?

An environment that is safe, supportive, and respectful.

How does feeling cared for affect communication?

It improves openness and effectiveness.

What are sender failures?

Unclear or inconsistent messages.

What are receiver failures?

Misinterpreting or not listening carefully

What are common barriers to effective communication?

• Lack of attention

• Lack of trust

• Differences in perception or background

• Embarrassment

• Saying what others want to hear

• Difficulty expressing thoughts

• Belief that silence is safer

• Mismatch between words and actions

What is one key rule about listening during communication?

Don’t interrupt.

When should athletes address issues?

Right away, instead of letting them build up.

Why should you avoid making assumptions?

It can lead to misunderstandings and conflict.

What should you do if you need support?

Ask teammates for help.

How should you handle intimidation when communicating?

Still voice your opinions confidently.

What nonverbal behavior improves communication?

Making eye contact.

What is confrontation in communication?

A face-to-face discussion between people in conflict

Is confrontation always negative?

No, when done properly it improves communication.

How can confrontation skills be improved?

Through communication training.

When should you NOT confront someone?

When you are angry.

When SHOULD you confront someone?

When you are calm, in control, and can communicate constructively.

Why must all parties’ needs be considered?

Because everyone’s needs are valid.

What is important besides the message itself during confrontation?

The process (how the conversation is handled).

Why is perspective important in conflict?

Everyone sees the situation as “right” from their point of view.

Are solutions permanent in conflict?

No, they are temporary and can change over time.

How should you show respect during confrontation?

Show that you value the relationship.

Why should you go slowly when confronting someone?

To think clearly and communicate effectively.

What should you try to understand?

The other person’s point of view.

What is an important listening skill during confrontation?

Listening carefully to the other person.

Why shouldn’t you jump straight to solutions?

Focus should be on understanding the problem first.

Why is it important to keep communicating?

Stopping communication worsens conflict.

What type of language should you avoid?

Put-downs or disrespectful comments.

Why shouldn’t you rely only on nonverbal cues?

Your message may not be clearly understood.

What are the three parts of the sandwich approach?

Positive statement → Instruction → Compliment

Why is the sandwich approach effective?

It balances feedback with encouragement.

What is an example of a positive statement?

“You are working really hard.”

What is an example of a future-oriented instruction?

“Next time, try to slow down.”

What is an example of a compliment?

“You’re improving—keep it up.”

What is the first step in giving constructive criticism?

Describe your feelings and take responsibility.

What is the second step?

Explain your thoughts about the situation.

What is the third step?

Describe why the behavior affects you.

What is the final step?

State what you want to be done differently.

What is Psychological Skills Training (PST)?

The systematic and consistent practice of mental skills to improve performance, enjoyment, and self-satisfaction.

Where do PST techniques come from?

Mainly from mainstream psychology.

Can PST impact performance?

Yes, it can have major positive effects.

Why do athletes consider PST important?

Psychological factors strongly influence daily performance.

What mental areas does PST help improve?

• Mental toughness

• Motivation

• Focus

• Confidence

• Emotional control (anger, frustration, fear)

• Fatigue management

Why is PST useful for mistakes and setbacks?

Helps athletes recover from mental letdowns.

Why don’t athletes train psychological skills enough?

• Lack of knowledge

• Discomfort teaching mental skills

• Belief skills can’t be learned

• Lack of time

Is PST only for problem athletes?

No

Is PST only for elite athletes?

No

Does PST provide quick fixes?

No, it requires consistent practice.

s PST useless?

No, it is proven to be effective.

Is PST a “magic solution”?

No, it requires realistic expectations and effort.

Can psychological skills be learned?

Yes, but they must be practiced regularly.

How do successful athletes differ mentally?

• Higher confidence

• Better control of arousal

• Stronger communication

• More positive thinking

• Greater commitment

What are the most useful PST topics?

• Arousal regulation

• Imagery/mental preparation

• Confidence building

• Goal setting (motivation)

• Concentration

• Self-talk

• Mental plans

What makes PST effective?

• Individualized programs

• Consistent use over time

• Combination of multiple skills (multimodal approach)

What are the three phases of PST?

Educational → Acquisition → Practice

What happens in the educational phase?

Athletes learn the importance of mental skills.

What is the “traffic light” awareness system?

• Green = flow (optimal state)

• Yellow = caution/refocus

• Red = serious problem (need coping strategies)

What is the focus of the acquisition phase?

Learning and practicing specific mental strategies.

How should PST programs be designed?

General for groups, but individualized for each athlete.

What is the goal of the practice phase?

Make mental skills automatic in competition.

How is practice phase done?

• Practice in real or simulated situations

• Overlearning skills

• Integrating multiple techniques

What tool helps track progress in PST?

Log books.

How can PST be used outside of sport?

In education, rehab, and fitness to improve behavior, motivation, and self-esteem.

How might a physical educator use PST?

Use relaxation to help a hyperactive child calm down.

How might a physical therapist use PST?

Use goal setting to maintain motivation during injury recovery.

How might a fitness instructor use PST?

Use positive self-talk to improve a client’s self-esteem.

What is the ultimate goal of PST?

Self-regulation.

What is self-regulation?

The ability to monitor and control thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to reach goals.

Who can conduct PST programs?

Coaches or sport psychologists (as long as they know their limits).

What must be considered when implementing PST?

Potential conflicts of interest.

When is the best time to start PST?

Off-season.

How often should PST be practiced?

10–15 minutes, 3–5 days per week.

When should athletes use mental training?

Throughout their entire career.

What are psychological skills?

Qualities to develop (e.g., confidence, self-awareness).

What are methods?

Techniques used to build skills (e.g., imagery, goal setting).