Practice Test Geeks(SCS) Sports Conditioning Specialist Certification Practice Test
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Mental Performance & Sports Psychology Flashcards

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  1. Which psychological concept refers to an athlete's belief in their ability to execute a specific action successfully?

    Answer: Self-efficacy

    Self-efficacy, as defined by Bandura, is the belief in one's capability to execute a specific task or performance, directly influencing athletic behavior and outcomes.

  2. What is the term for the state of complete immersion and optimal performance where time feels distorted and effort seems effortless?

    Answer: Flow state

    Flow state (Csikszentmihalyi) describes optimal experience characterized by total absorption in the task, effortless focus, and peak performance.

  3. According to the Inverted-U hypothesis, athletic performance is highest at which level of arousal?

    Answer: Moderate/optimal arousal

    The Inverted-U (Yerkes-Dodson) hypothesis states performance peaks at moderate arousal levels, declining at both extremes of too low or too high arousal.

  4. Which mental skill technique involves an athlete mentally rehearsing a skill or performance scenario without physical movement?

    Answer: Visualization/imagery

    Visualization (mental imagery) is the cognitive rehearsal of a skill or scenario in the mind, activating similar neural pathways as physical practice.

  5. A strength coach notices an athlete is consistently 'choking' during competitions despite strong practice performance. What is the most likely cause?

    Answer: Excessive cognitive anxiety and pressure

    Choking under pressure is primarily attributed to excessive cognitive anxiety causing attentional shifts and disruption of automated motor skills.

  6. What does SMART goal-setting stand for in sports psychology?

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

    SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, providing a structured framework for effective athletic goal-setting.

  7. Which type of goal focuses on achieving a standard relative to other competitors (e.g., winning a medal)?

    Answer: Outcome goal

    Outcome goals focus on competitive results and ranking relative to opponents, such as winning a race or placing in a tournament.

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