What does a sport psychologist actually do?

Sport psychology is an interdisciplinary science that studies how psychological factors influence athletic performance and how exercise impacts well-being. Professionals in this field teach cognitive and behavioral techniques to enhance performance, help non-athletes stick to exercise routines, and assist with injury rehabilitation, team-building, and career transitions.

What we know

• Sport psychology is an interdisciplinary science drawing on knowledge from fields such as biomechanics, physiology, kinesiology, and psychology. [2]
• Sport psychologists teach cognitive and behavioral techniques to athletes to enhance their performance and overall experience. [2]
• Applied sport psychology may include working with athletes, coaches, and parents regarding injury, rehabilitation, communication, and team-building. [2]
• The idea behind flow originated from sport psychology theory regarding an Individual Zone of Optimal Functioning. [3]

Where to go next

• the bigger pictureWhat is the scientific study of the mind and behavior?
• how it workedHow does being in the zone affect focus and enjoyment?
• a case in pointWhat defines activities with a high risk of injury or death?
• what caused itHow do genetics contribute to athletic performance and endurance?
• what followedHow do psychological skills help athletes transition after their careers?
• an unexpected connectionHow does occupational therapy connect to being in the zone?The mental state of flow, which originated from sport psychology theories, is notably well recognized and applied within occupational therapy.

Sources

• [1]sport psychology (Wikidata Q632190) · CC0 1.0
• [2]Sport psychology · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [3]Flow (psychology) · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [4]Extreme sport · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [5]Psychology · CC BY-SA 4.0