Week 6: Reflection and Link

After our discussion of different applied psychologies on Tuesday of this week, I've decided to post on the topic of sport psychology. This is arguably one of the lesser known branches, and definitely a rapidly-growing one. Sport psychology focuses on the relationship between psychological factors and one's performance in sports. Those who specialize in this area must know a great deal about kinesiology in addition to the typical techniques of visualization, awareness, goal setting and control.

Some say that the first sport psychology lab in the US was opened in 1920 by a man in Germany (shocking). Over time, the focus of sport psychology seems to have shifted from attitudes to more research-based exploration of performance, including stress management and the effects of exercise. The acknowledgement that physical activity and healthy mental adjustments are correlated signifies an important moment in the history of this discipline.

One interesting fact I learned in my reading about sport psychology is the prevalence of 'criticism' in the field. Criticism is defined as an aspect of motivational theory that is necessary to improve performance. Based on delivery, criticism may drastically enhance or reduce performance. The best type of criticism is constructive, delivered through the sandwich method: First offer a compliment, then direct criticism and feedback, then finish with a compliment.

Check out the North American Society of Sport Psychology and Physical Activity here: http://www.naspspa.org/

Also, here's the website of a (psychotherapist turned) sport psychologist. Bizarre. http://www.stayinthezone.com/?gclid=CPikjMDC_ZgCFSQMDQod5AwqnA