Introduction to Sport Psychology

What is the primary focus of sport psychology?

How is the term 'sport' defined in the context of sport psychology?

What is one major aim of the learning objectives in this chapter?

According to the content, what does psychology primarily study?

Which of the following best describes the approaches to psychology that students are encouraged to recognize?

What is the significance of theories and research in psychology as stated in the objectives?

Who is typically entitled to use the designation of sport psychologist?

What does sport psychology encompass beyond competitive sport?

What is the primary focus of applied sport psychology?

Who is often referred to as the 'father of sport psychology'?

What phenomenon did Norman Triplett investigate in his early study?

In what year did the Athletic Research Laboratory, established by Coleman Griffith, close?

Which of the following topics is NOT generally covered in sport psychology?

What was a significant milestone for sport psychology in the 1920s?

How did European writers generally view the distinction between academic and applied sport psychology?

During which period was there little activity in the field of sport psychology in the Western world?

Learning Objectives

Define sport psychology as the study of the psychological basis, processes, and effects of sport.
Recognize the purpose of theory and research in psychology and identify major research methods used in sport psychology.
Understand the roles of sport psychologists and the criteria for using the designation.
Identify key approaches to psychology.
Develop critical thinking skills regarding psychological theory and research.

Definition and Scope of Sport Psychology

Sport psychology encompasses a broad definition that includes any physical activity aimed at competition, recreation, education, or health, beyond just competitive sports.
Psychology is defined as the science of mind and behavior.
Distinction exists between academic sport psychology (all factors affecting sport participation) and applied sport psychology (enhancing athletic performance).

Historical Background

The discipline has roots dating back to the late 19th century.
Norman Triplett’s 1898 study on social facilitation is recognized as the first experiment in both social and sport psychology, showcasing that cyclists performed better in groups than alone.
Coleman Griffith established the Athletic Research Laboratory at the University of Illinois in 1925, marking a formal establishment of sport psychology.
Griffith is referred to as the 'father of sport psychology,' credited with creating university courses and publishing key textbooks.
The Athletic Research Laboratory closed in 1932 due to funding issues, leading to a decline in sport psychology activities until the 1960s.
In the Soviet Union, sport psychology gained traction shortly after its inception in other fields.

Key Topics in Sport Psychology

Areas of focus include personality, attitudes, aggression, stress and anxiety, group dynamics, motivation, and skill acquisition.
These topics are relevant not only for academic understanding but also for practical applications with athletes and spectators.

This quiz covers the foundational concepts of sport psychology, including its definition, historical background, and the roles of sport psychologists. You will also explore research methods in the field and the major psychological approaches. By the end, you should critically engage with theoretical frameworks and research in sport psychology.