ISSA Sports Psychology

Question 1

Which psychological technique involves an athlete mentally rehearsing a skill or performance before executing it?

Accepted Answer

Visualization (mental imagery)

Answer

Progressive relaxation

Answer

Self-talk

Answer

Biofeedback

Question 2

What term describes the optimal mental state in which an athlete performs at their best with seemingly effortless focus?

Accepted Answer

Flow state

Answer

Arousal

Answer

Cognitive anxiety

Answer

Dissociation

Question 3

According to the Yerkes-Dodson Law, what is the relationship between arousal and performance?

Accepted Answer

Inverted-U — moderate arousal produces optimal performance

Answer

Linear — more arousal always improves performance

Answer

Inverse — arousal always decreases performance

Answer

No relationship exists between arousal and performance

Question 4

Which type of motivation comes from internal sources such as personal satisfaction and love of the activity?

Accepted Answer

Intrinsic motivation

Answer

Extrinsic motivation

Answer

Introjected motivation

Answer

External regulation

Question 5

What is self-efficacy in the context of sports psychology?

Accepted Answer

An athlete's belief in their ability to succeed at a specific task

Answer

A client's overall physical fitness level

Answer

The degree of external motivation an athlete has

Answer

A measurement of athletic IQ

Question 6

Which strategy involves an athlete using brief, positive phrases to direct attention and boost confidence during training or competition?

Accepted Answer

Positive self-talk

Answer

Meditation

Answer

Systematic desensitization

Answer

Attentional focus

Question 7

What is the primary goal of goal-setting in sports psychology?

Accepted Answer

To direct attention, increase effort, and enhance persistence toward desired outcomes

Answer

To increase extrinsic rewards for athletes

Answer

To reduce training volume

Answer

To eliminate competitive anxiety entirely