CCSP CCSP Sports Psychology & Mental Performance Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which psychological theory proposes that athletic performance follows an inverted-U relationship with arousal level, where moderate arousal produces optimal performance?

Accepted Answer

Yerkes-Dodson Law

Answer

Catastrophe Theory

Answer

Zone of Optimal Functioning (ZOF)

Answer

Self-Determination Theory

Question 2

A CCSP is evaluating an athlete who reports persistent performance anxiety, social withdrawal, and loss of motivation after a serious injury. Which condition should be considered first in the differential?

Accepted Answer

Post-injury depression or adjustment disorder

Answer

Overtraining syndrome only

Answer

Performance anxiety disorder not otherwise specified

Answer

Malingering

Question 3

Which validated screening tool is commonly recommended for identifying psychological distress and depression risk in injured athletes?

Accepted Answer

Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)

Answer

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

Answer

Visual Analog Scale (VAS)

Answer

Functional Movement Screen (FMS)

Question 4

An athlete describes a mental state of complete absorption in performance, effortless action, and intrinsic enjoyment. This optimal psychological state is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Flow state

Answer

Dissociation

Answer

Peak arousal

Answer

Autogenic relaxation

Question 5

Which mental skill involves an athlete using positive internal monologue to regulate emotions and maintain focus during competition?

Accepted Answer

Self-talk

Answer

Imagery

Answer

Progressive muscle relaxation

Answer

Attentional focus training

Question 6

The fear of re-injury is one of the most significant psychological barriers to return to sport. Which psychometrically validated tool specifically measures kinesiophobia (fear of movement/re-injury) in athletes?

Accepted Answer

Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK)

Answer

Sports Anxiety Scale-2 (SAS-2)

Answer

PHQ-9

Answer

Athlete Burnout Questionnaire (ABQ)