This module provides an understanding of contemporary topics in sport and exercise psychology focusing broadly on issues arising from the study of individual differences, affective states (e.g., anxiety and mood) and social factors (e.g., leadership and group cohesion). The module looks to combine theoretical consents with practical examples to provide a unique learning environment for students to understand and develop their knowledge of sports psychology.

You will complete a 2000 word essay where they will identify one aspect of sports performance or physical activity and discuss the effects of one aspect of psychological training and how this can have a positive impact on athletes or participants. (LO 1, 2 &3)

You will attend lectures and seminars across a single semester with lectures providing in depth theory and information regarding key psychological theories and concepts that you will then discuss in detail during the seminars. Five key topics will be covered during the module; anxiety and stress, motivation, self-confidence and self-efficacy, group dynamics, and leadership. Content will be delivered across 2/3 lectures per topic, and the subsequent seminars will also cover this material. During seminars, you will perform relevant research studies that mimic real world research per topic. For example, you will perform an anxiety study between themselves during the first seminar that will see them report feelings of anxiety and perform a competitive task (i.e., BATAK). You will then discuss the procedures, measures, and results. The following seminar will see you recapping the lecture content and using the information to attach meaning, explain, and evaluate relevant case studies. The same process will be repeated per topic with a large emphasis placed upon you doing sport and exercise psychology research and using the information from lectures and seminars to evaluate relevant case studies.

1. Discuss the nature and significance of individual differences and affective states (e.g., anxiety and mood) in relation to sport performance and exercise participation.

2. Demonstrate an ability to explain how social and group influences shape sport performance and exercise participation.

3. Evidence an understanding of the underlying determinants of exercise and physical activity participation, and facilitative sports performance.

Psychological tasks (i.e., Batak, dart boards, putting matt).

Blackboard

Library

Butler, R. J. (2020). Sports psychology in action. CRC Press.

Mann, A., & Narula, B. (2017). Positive psychology in sports: An overview. International Journal of Social Science, 6(2), 153-158.

Singh, R. (2022). Sports Psychology. KK Publications.

This module provides an understanding of contemporary topics in sport and exercise psychology focusing broadly on issues arising from the study of individual differences, affective states (e.g., anxiety and mood) and social factors (e.g., leadership and group cohesion). You will be provided with theoretical and research knowledge on a range of contemporary sport and exercise psychology related issues. Practical examples will be provided throughout the module to incorporate theoretical learning within practice. Sport and exercise research methodologies will be explored and critically analysed. The importance of engaging in exercise or physical activity from a broader society perspective will also be outlined.