Self talk

Question 1

What are the 2 main categories of self talk?

Answer 1

Positive and negative self talk

Question 2

What is positive self talk?

Answer 2

Often used for motivation, aiming to increase energy levels and produce a more positive attitude in athletes.
involves statements such as ‘Keep going!’ or ‘I can do this!’ rather than task specific instructions.

Question 3

What is negative self talk?

Answer 3

A self-critical process which involves statements like ‘That was a stupid mistake to make’ and ‘I can’t believe how bad I was’.

Question 4

How beneficial is positive self talk for sporting?

Answer 4

Historically sport psychologists
believed positive self-talk was beneficial for all sporting activities.
Recent research suggests positive, motivational self-talk may not be as effective for sports requiring fine movements

Question 5

How beneficial is negative self talk for sporting?

Answer 5

Some sport psychologists have argued it hinders an athlete from achieving goals and fosters self-doubt.
Recently some researchers have argued negative self-talk does not always impede performance.

Question 6

What are the uses of self talk?

Answer 6

-Self confidence
-Arousal control
-Pre-performance routines

Question 7

What is instructional self talk?

Answer 7

A task-specific form of self talk that involves the athlete giving instructions to themselves about different aspects of performance