An in-depth examination of the role social psychological variables play in participation and performance in sport. Principles and application of Mental Skills Training to enhance performance are also considered.
SPEX 304 provides the theoretical and empirical evidence that underpins sport psychology practice. The importance of psychological factors in sport is widely recognised by athletes and coaches. This paper will explore, in depth, important psychological concepts that influence participation and performance in sport. It will also explore some of the effects participation in sport has on psychological responses. These psychological concepts will be explored from a theoretical perspective with critical analysis of the sport psychology literature. Specifically, the origins of sport psychology and the research methods used to build the sport psychology evidence base are discussed. Then drawing on this evidence base, the concepts of motivation, anxiety and stress, self-confidence, concentration/attention, mental skills training (MST), and sport-based life skills development will be examined.
| Paper title | Sport Psychology |
|---|---|
| Paper code | SPEX304 |
| Subject | Sport, Physical Education and Exercise |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 1 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $1,141.35 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- PHSE 205 or SPEX 204
- Restriction
- PHSE 334, PHSE 534
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music, Science
- Eligibility
Suitable for students interested in the psychology of sport, social psychology, sport coaching, physical education, sport and exercise science.
- Contact
Professor Ken Hodge (ken.hodge@otago.ac.nz)
- More information link
- Teaching staff
Course Co-ordinator and Lecturer: Professor Ken Hodge
- Paper Structure
The paper covers seven topics:
- Introduction to the origins of sport psychology and research methods employed
- Motivation for sport
- The relationship between performance and stress and anxiety
- Self-confidence
- Attention and concentration
- Mental Skills Training (MST)
- Sport-based lifeskills development
- Teaching Arrangements
Tutorial attendance is compulsory.
- Textbooks
There is no compulsory textbook. A reading list will be provided, which details the book chapter or research articles that complement each lecture. These readings will be available online and through course reserve in the library.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Lifelong learning, Critical thinking, Self-motivation.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
On completing the paper students will demonstrate:
- An in-depth understanding of theory and current research evidence relating to the psychological factors important to participation and performance in sport
- An in-depth understanding of how the sporting environment influences the psychological outcomes experienced by athletes
