What is Sport Psychology?
Sport Psychology
The American Psychological Association Div 47. defines applied sport psychology as, “The study and application of psychological principles of human performance in helping athletes consistently perform in the upper range of their capabilities and more thoroughly enjoy the sport performance process.”
Sport Psychology is a discipline of psychology dedicated to the scientific study of people and their behavior as applied to sport.
There are three areas of psychology in which Sport Psychologists work:
There are three areas of psychology in which Sport Psychologists work:
Educational
We help athletes/coaches develop the psychological skills necessary for optimal performance (e.g. relaxation training, guided imagery, goal setting, focusing techniques, etc.).
Clinical
We help athletes/coaches who are struggling with emotional problems, such as depression, anxiety disorders, stress management, eating disorders and body image issues, etc.
Research
In our capacity as professionals, we are constantly reviewing current sport psychology research seeking new applications of evidence-based techniques to enhance the athlete’s experience and sense of control while performing.
We help athletes/coaches develop the psychological skills necessary for optimal performance (e.g. relaxation training, guided imagery, goal setting, focusing techniques, etc.).
Clinical
We help athletes/coaches who are struggling with emotional problems, such as depression, anxiety disorders, stress management, eating disorders and body image issues, etc.
Research
In our capacity as professionals, we are constantly reviewing current sport psychology research seeking new applications of evidence-based techniques to enhance the athlete’s experience and sense of control while performing.
What roles do Sport Psychologists fill?
A Sport Psychologist may fulfill multiple roles:
Studying...
how participation in sport and physical exercise may effect a person’s physical and mental development
Teaching...
performance enhancement skills while engaged in sport to teams and athletes
Helping...
athletes recover from injuries and counseling individuals in wellness practices
Promoting and Developing...
personal life skills across an athlete's life span
Studying...
how participation in sport and physical exercise may effect a person’s physical and mental development
Teaching...
performance enhancement skills while engaged in sport to teams and athletes
Helping...
athletes recover from injuries and counseling individuals in wellness practices
Promoting and Developing...
personal life skills across an athlete's life span