FIG Psychology and Mental Conditioning

Question 1

Which psychological concept refers to an athlete's belief in their ability to successfully execute a specific gymnastics skill?

Accepted Answer

Self-efficacy

Answer

Intrinsic motivation

Answer

Arousal regulation

Answer

Outcome orientation

Question 2

According to the Yerkes-Dodson Law, optimal athletic performance occurs when arousal is:

Accepted Answer

At a moderate, task-appropriate level

Answer

At its lowest possible level

Answer

At its highest possible level

Answer

Completely absent during competition

Question 3

A gymnastics coach who asks athletes to focus on precise body-position cues during a vault is assigning which type of goal?

Accepted Answer

Process goal

Answer

Outcome goal

Answer

Performance goal

Answer

Competitive goal

Question 4

Which mental skill involves an athlete creating detailed, multi-sensory mental rehearsals of skills or routines before performing them?

Accepted Answer

Imagery/visualization

Answer

Positive self-talk

Answer

Progressive muscle relaxation

Answer

Centering

Question 5

What is the primary psychological purpose of a gymnast's pre-competition routine?

Accepted Answer

To establish consistent psychological readiness and optimal arousal

Answer

To learn new skills immediately before competing

Answer

To assess competitors' weaknesses

Answer

To conserve physical energy before the event

Question 6

Which technique involves an athlete using brief, positive internal statements such as 'strong and steady' to maintain focus during competition?

Accepted Answer

Positive self-talk

Answer

Biofeedback

Answer

Centering

Answer

Systematic desensitization

Question 7

Cognitive appraisal theory suggests that a gymnast's stress response depends primarily on:

Accepted Answer

How they interpret the competitive situation as a threat or a challenge

Answer

Their physical conditioning level

Answer

The difficulty rating of their routine

Answer

Their coach's emotional state before competition