B.2 - Psychology of Sports

Question 1

Define the term motivation

Answer 1

Motivation is “the internal mechanisms and external stimuli which arouse and direct our behaviour” (Sage, 1974).

Question 2

What are the different types of motivation

Answer 2

1. Intrinsic motivation
2. Extrinsic motivation

Question 3

Outline Intrinsic motivation

Answer 3

• comes from within a person
• associated with doing an activity for itself
• pleasure and satisfaction derived from participation

Motives:

• excitement
• fun, enjoyment
• chance to improve skills

Question 4

Outline Extrinsic motivation

Answer 4

• Comes from outside the person.
• External rewards such as:
• money
• trophies
• prizes
• praise
• status

Question 5

Discuss the issues associated with the use of intrinsic and extrinsic motivators in sports and exercise.

Answer 5

• Extrinsic rewards influence intrinsic motivation
• Extrisic rewards seen as controlling of behavior
• Extrinsic rewards enhance intrisic motivation when rewards provide positive information about the performers level competence

Question 6

Describe Atkinson’s model of Achievement Motivation

Answer 6

Theory: Motivation is a balance between the motive to achieve success and the motive to avoid failure

Question 7

Outline Goal Orientation Theory

(Achievement goal theory)

Answer 7

The efforts an athlete makes to achieve excellence in their chosen field

According to this theory, the main concern of the athlete is to succeed and to avoid failure

Achievement goal theory states that an individual’s goals in a particular situation is a combined result of their typical response (personality) and prevailing situational factors (environment)

Question 8

Task vs outcome orientation

Answer 8

Outcome goal orientated:

• judge success by how they compare to others
• is more likely to select tasks in which they are guaranteed success

Task goal orientated:

• Has a strong work ethic
• good at maintaining effort without immediate reward
• Does not fear failure