Sports Psychology Flashcards

Which type of anxiety involves the mental component of nervousness, such as worry and negative thoughts?

Answer: Cognitive anxiety

Cognitive anxiety refers to the mental/psychological component of anxiety, including worry, doubt, and negative expectancies about performance.

A personal trainer notices a client consistently quits when tasks become challenging. This most likely reflects a lack of which psychological trait?

Answer: Mental toughness / resilience

Mental toughness and resilience refer to the ability to persist through difficulty, maintain focus, and bounce back from setbacks.

What does SMART stand for in the context of athletic goal-setting?

Answer: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound

SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound — a framework that maximizes the effectiveness of goal-setting.

Which type of goal focuses on the process of performing rather than the end result?

Answer: Process goal

Process goals focus on the specific actions and behaviors during performance, such as maintaining proper form or breathing technique.

Overtraining syndrome can manifest with which psychological symptom?

Answer: Mood disturbances including depression and irritability

Overtraining syndrome commonly causes psychological symptoms such as depression, irritability, decreased motivation, and mood disturbances alongside physical decline.

What is the term for anxiety that is viewed as helpful and enhances performance rather than harming it?

Answer: Facilitative anxiety

Facilitative anxiety occurs when an athlete interprets pre-competition nervousness as energizing and helpful rather than threatening.

Which psychological theory suggests that individuals are motivated when they feel competent, autonomous, and connected to others?

Answer: Self-determination theory

Self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan) proposes that intrinsic motivation flourishes when three basic psychological needs — competence, autonomy, and relatedness — are met.