Applied Research in Sports Psychology Essay Example

techniques to manage their perception of these events.

Through the use of cognitive techniques, athletes can develop an understanding of negative thoughts that impede their progress and exchange them for more beneficial and optimistic thoughts. Applied psychology is instrumental in assisting all parties involved in managing athletes' expectations regarding performance by addressing the discrepancy between perception and external pressures. Somatic techniques play a crucial role in relaxation and stress reduction among athletes by effectively controlling arousal levels. These techniques encompass imagery, progressive relaxation, self-direction, and biofeedback with the aim of creating a serene environment free from stress.

Visualization and Imagery

The use of imagery is crucial in sports psychology as it enables athletes to generate sensory experiences in their minds, even without any external stimuli. Martin's (2016) research emphasizes the importance of athletes regularly engaging in visualization and creating mental images of success. By picturing themselves triumphing in a specific race, they increase the likelihood of achieving positive outcomes. Visualization primarily focuses on replicating visual stimuli.

Sports psychologists emphasize the importance of imagery and visualization in enhancing athletic performance. Athletes can enhance their skills and achieve better results by creating mental images centered on success and positive ideas. The use of imagery aids athletes in addressing sport-related issues, preparing for competitions, overcoming challenges, and improving overall performance. Consistent practice of imagery and visualization with appropriate techniques is crucial to achieving desired positive effects. In psychology, the terms "imagery" and "visualization" are frequently used interchangeably.

Attention Control and Concentration

Extensive research in sports performance supports the importance of attention control and concentration for athletes. These mental skills are considered essential in psychology. Despite facing various obstacles and distractions, such as sounds, sensations,

visuals, and thoughts, athletes must maintain focus during any field event. Concentration involves sustaining focus for a set duration, while selective attention refers to the ability to choose a specific stimulus to concentrate on (Parnell et al., 2015).

Athletes must possess the ability to rapidly and accurately change their focus in order to accomplish their objectives within a specific timeframe. This includes assessing their own thoughts and developing a successful race plan. Once they have established this plan, they must immediately shift their attention to factors such as the actual race and the positions of their competitors, while still prioritizing their winning strategy. Attention control encompasses shifting focus between external and internal factors, as well as transitioning from a narrow to broad perspective and vice versa.

Motivation

Motivation refers to an athlete's level of effort and the direction in which it is applied.

Some athletes are motivated by the desire to acquire new knowledge and skills while competing, rather than just focusing on the end result. They also strive to demonstrate superiority and expertise over fellow players in order to improve their performance. There are two types of motivation: intrinsic and extrinsic (Martin, 2016). Intrinsic motivation comes from internal factors like satisfaction or pride, while extrinsic motivation relies on external factors such as resources and recognition from the outside world.

Psychological studies suggest that when athletes are encouraged to make important decisions in their fields, it has a positive effect on their intrinsic motivation.

Conclusion

To achieve optimal performance, it is essential to regularly focus on and take necessary actions to enhance athletes' performance. Additionally, continuous efforts should be made to improve their performance and overcome the challenges they face in their

sports careers. By motivating athletes and enabling them to make critical decisions, their confidence and overall performance can be elevated.

Considering off-field factors, such as academic pressures and strained relationships, is crucial as they can have an impact on the performance of athletes.

References

1. Martin, Lorena. Sports Performance Measurement and Analytics: The Science of Assessing Performance, Predicting Future Outcomes, Interpreting Statistical Models, and Evaluating the Market Value of Athletes. FT Press, 2016.
2. Parnell, Jill A., Kristin Wiens, and Kelly Anne Erdman. "Evaluation of congruence among dietary supplement use and motivation for supplementation in young, Canadian athletes." Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 12.1 (2015): 1-10.
3. Shilpi J., Singh P.W., ; Kumar P. (2015). Interactive effect of mental skills training and anxiety on Indian athlete's performance.