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Sport Psychology and Motivation Flashcards

7 cards from real NSCA CSCS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. Which arousal theory proposes that performance is best at a moderate level of arousal, with both under- and over-arousal leading to poor performance?

    Answer: Inverted-U hypothesis

    The inverted-U hypothesis (Yerkes-Dodson law) describes an optimal moderate arousal level for peak performance, with performance declining at both extremes.

  2. An athlete who trains hard primarily to win prize money and external recognition is best described as having which type of motivation?

    Answer: Extrinsic motivation

    Extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards such as money, trophies, or recognition rather than internal satisfaction.

  3. According to self-determination theory, which psychological need involves feeling effective and competent in one's actions?

    Answer: Competence

    Competence is one of the three basic psychological needs in self-determination theory, referring to the need to feel effective and capable.

  4. A strength coach notices an athlete performing worse in competition than in practice. This phenomenon is most consistent with which psychological concept?

    Answer: Choking under pressure

    Choking under pressure refers to performance decrements that occur during high-stakes situations compared to practice conditions.

  5. Which type of goal focuses on mastering skills and improving personal performance relative to past performance?

    Answer: Mastery/task goal

    Mastery or task goals focus on personal improvement, skill development, and self-referenced standards rather than outperforming others.

  6. The psychological technique of having an athlete mentally rehearse a perfect lift before attempting it is an example of:

    Answer: Mental imagery

    Mental imagery (visualization) involves mentally rehearsing a skill or performance to enhance confidence and prepare the nervous system.

  7. Which concept describes an athlete's belief in their capability to perform a specific task successfully?

    Answer: Self-efficacy

    Self-efficacy, as defined by Bandura, is a situation-specific belief in one's ability to successfully perform a particular task.