PSY FPX 6820 Assessment 3 Individual Performance Enhancement Plan

PSY FPX 6820 Assessment 3 Individual Performance Enhancement Plan

Student Name

Capella University

PSY FPX 6820 Performance Enhancement in Sports

Prof. Name

Date

Availability of Psychological Services for Athletes

A variety of services aimed at enhancing athletic performance exist, comprising specialized interventions tailored to meet athletes’ individual needs. These interventions are preferred over conventional approaches due to their suitability for addressing athletes’ unique requirements. Typically, these services begin with the involvement of a sports psychologist and may involve other professionals as necessary. Sports psychologists are experts in sport, exercise, and physical activity, catering to individuals, teams, or organizations. Their interventions focus on improving specific mental, behavioral, psychosocial, and emotional skills such as relaxation techniques, concentration, and imagery utilization. Research indicates that attentional control theory sheds light on how anxiety can affect performance, underscoring the importance of addressing psychological factors (Williams & Krane, 2021).

Utilization of Assessment Findings

In the realm of performance enhancement and athlete-specific psychological services, establishing clear goals is crucial. An assessment of Andrew’s performance reveals elevated levels of external and internal distractibility, alongside low information processing scores, suggesting susceptibility to stress and burnout. Addressing these issues involves redirecting Andrew’s attention towards task-relevant stimuli. Additionally, Andrew displays high self-criticism and low physical competitiveness, which could hinder his performance. Setting goals focused on cultivating mindfulness and encouraging positive self-talk may help mitigate these challenges and enhance overall team dynamics (Dorfman, 1990; EPSystems, 1974).

Implementation of Performance Enhancement Strategies

In cases where athletes aim to optimize their performance, effective goal-setting techniques are pivotal. Utilizing theories and strategies tailored to individual needs, such as SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely), facilitates progress towards desired outcomes (AASP, 2022). Despite criticisms of SMART goals for their lack of challenge, integrating short-term goals aligned with long-term objectives enhances goal attainability and fosters motivation (Nowack, 2017). Activity-based interventions, such as attention redirection with imagery and incorporation of positive self-talk, offer practical approaches to enhancing performance and managing anxiety (Williams & Krane, 2021).

Activity-Based Interventions

Activity-based interventions, such as attention redirection with imagery and positive self-talk, provide practical strategies for enhancing performance and managing anxiety. These techniques involve guided visualization exercises and cognitive restructuring aimed at improving focus and self-confidence. Moreover, mindfulness practices promote relaxation and stress reduction, contributing to overall well-being and performance optimization (Williams & Krane, 2021).

Conclusion

In conclusion, addressing the diverse needs of athletes requires a comprehensive approach that includes psychological interventions tailored to individual requirements. By implementing evidence-based techniques and strategies, athletes like Andrew can enhance their performance and overall well-being. Furthermore, the integration of activity-based interventions offers practical tools for managing anxiety and optimizing athletic performance. Through collaborative efforts between athletes, coaches, and sports psychologists, achieving peak performance becomes attainable.

PSY FPX 6820 Assessment 3 Individual Performance Enhancement Plan

References

Association for Applied Sport Psychology. (2022). Ethics code: AASP ethical principles and standards. Retrieved from http://www.appliedsportpsych.org/about/ethics/ethics-code/

Dorfman, H. A. (1990). Reflections on providing personal and performance enhancement consulting services in professional baseball. The Sport Psychologist, 4(4), 341-346. https://doi.org/10.1123/tsp.4.4.341

EPSystems. (1974). Tais sales report sample – sullivan search. The Attentional & Interpersonal Style Inventory. Retrieved from https://sullivansearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/TAIS-Sales-Report-Sample.pdf

Nowack, K. (2017). Facilitating successful behavior change: Beyond goal setting to goal flourishing. Consulting Psychology Journal: Practice and Research, 69(3), 153-171.

PSY FPX 6820 Assessment 3 Individual Performance Enhancement Plan

Williams, J. M., & Krane, V. (Eds.). (2021). Applied sport psychology: Personal growth to peak performance (8th ed.). McGraw-Hill.