Sports Psychology - Stress Management

Question 1

What is the definition of stress?

Answer 1

The trigger that can cause increased arousal or anxiety.

Question 2

What are the four causes of stress in sport?

Answer 2

Conflict: which may be with a coach, teammate or opposition.
Meeting a challenge which the performer cannot cope with: taking or saving a penalty in football.
Competition: particularly if the outcome is important
Frustration: a feeling that a performance is prevented from reaching their goal.

Question 4

What are the seven cognitive methods can manage stress levels?

Answer 4

Mindfulness
Positive thinking and self talk
Goal setting
Imagery
Mental rehearsal
Negative thought stopping
Rational thinking

Question 5

What are the four somatic techniques for managing stress?

Answer 5

Progressive muscular contraction: all the main muscle groups are tense and then gradually released in turn.

Bio feedback: electronic instruments to measure the bodies, physiological changes making it easier to control and enter a calm state

Breathing control: consciously controlling the weight and depth of breathing to reduce muscle tension and the effects of stress and anxiety

Centring technique: drawing focused to the core of the body to reduce the effect of anxiety.