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The efficacy of psychological skills training for enhancing performance in sport: a review of reviews
Abstract
Psychological skills training (PST) is one approach within sport psychology to enhance athletic performance. A significant amount research documents the efficacy of PST for enhancing performance which has led to numerous reviews. Such is the volume of reviews, that a “review of reviews”, or overview, is warranted. This overview aimed to examine reviews summarising the evidence that PST enhances performance in sport. Six online databases were searched electronically, and thirteen journals were searched manually, following which accumulated articles were forward- and backward-searched. A total of 30 systematic, meta-analytic, and narrative reviews were included that (a) reviewed studies involving the application of PST to athletes, and (b) summarised the effects of PST interventions on sport performance, or a motor performance-based surrogate of a sporting task. Data regarding review characteristics, PST interventions reviewed, and outcomes were extracted. Included reviews were assessed using the AMSTAR 2 instrument. 90% of the reviews concluded that PST interventions can enhance performance; however, 97% were rated as critically low in quality. Critically low quality reviews should not be relied on to provide an accurate and comprehensive summary of the available studies, thus the conclusion of this overview is that practitioners must be cautious when making claims about the review-level evidence for their PST interventions. It is suggested that prospective reviewers ensure they draw on current and accepted review methodology so that readers have clarity about the efficacy of the reviewed PST interventions in future research.
... The field of sport psychology has devoted much attention to understanding the complex interactions between psychological variables and sport performance (Cerezuela et al., 2024). The study of psychosomatic variables, which involve the complex interaction of mind and body, is particularly important in this field (Lange-Smith et al., 2023;Barker et al., 2020). The most popular game in rural India, aside from Kabaddi, is the reasoning game Kho-Kho, which has an incredibly lengthy history. ...
... Morning sessions appear to be particularly effective in improving psychological well-being compared to evening sessions or no intervention. These results have significant implications for designing and implementing psychological interventions, emphasizing the need to consider the timing of interventions to optimize outcomes (Lange-Smith et al., 2023;Boughattas, Salha, & Moella, 2022). Further research exploring the underlying mechanisms and long-term effects of exercise timing on psychological variables is warranted to provide deeper insights into the relationship between exercise timing and psychological well-being (Romero-Gonzalez et al., 2020;Komarudin et al., 2024). ...
This study aims to investigate how the timing of exercise impacts psychological skill training and its influence on psychosomatic variables among college-level female Kho-Kho players. The study's subjects included 45 Kho-Kho players from various colleges in Tamil Nadu; each group had 15 subjects. The age range of the players was 18 to 25 years old. They had played Kho-Kho for a minimum of three years. Group
... Despite these advancements, research on MT's application for mental health is limited, with only a recent shift towards enhancing well-being through interventions [12,13]. It is only recently that there has been a shift toward exploring the athlete's well-being and quality of life through MT interventions to foster psychological resilience along with understanding the influence of cultural and social support systems on mental health outcomes, as emphasised by Ryba's cultural praxis approach and Lundqvist's work on athlete wellbeing (see, Lundqvist [14], Trainor [15], Ryba [16]. ...
... 4. Grit Scale (Grit-S) by Duckworth [31]: The Grit-S measures an individual's level of passion and perseverance. It includes 12 items, with negative items (2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 11) scored from 1 "very much like m") to 5 "not like m"), and positive items (1,4,6,9,10,12) reversed. The scale has been applied to academic performance, health, and physical fitness, demonstrating strong reliability and validity. ...
Purpose
Mental training, widely recognised in sports psychology, has not been fully utilised to address broader mental health concerns among athletes, especially in India. This study examines the Psychological Capacity Building Program (PCB P) for Indian shooters and archers, focusing on key psychological variables such as motivation, grit, emotions, and well-being. The four-phase program includes sports analyses, individual assessments, motivational tasks, a one-week psychoeducational phase on mental skills, and two weeks of applying these skills in the athlete’s daily training routines.
Methods
Psychometric tools such as the Sports Motivation Scale-II (SMS-II), Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF), Sports Emotion Questionnaire (SEQ), and Grit Scale were used to measure pre- and post-intervention scores of 122 athletes, divided into experimental (n = 60) and control (n = 62) groups. Within-group and between-group analyses were conducted, along with effect size calculations.
Results
The experimental group showed significant improvements in happiness (p < 0.001), emotional well-being (p = 0.017), intrinsic motivation (p = 0.006), and grit (p = 0.004), alongside reductions in dejection (p = 0.001) and non-regulation (p < 0.001). In contrast, the control group experienced increased anger (p = 0.005) but no other significant changes. Between-group comparisons revealed greater reductions in anxiety (p < 0.001) and significant improvements in happiness (p < 0.001), emotional well-being (p < 0.001), social well-being (p < 0.001), and grit (p = 0.004) in the experimental group.
Conclusions
PCB P shows promise for enhancing the athlete’s mental health, but further research with larger samples is needed to confirm its effectiveness and long-term adaptability across diverse sports.
... Kulcsszavak: sportpszichológia, REBT, iPBI, validitás, reliabilitás Bevezetés A sportpszichológia mint alkalmazott pszichológiai tudományág leggyakrabban használt és kutatott komplex beavatkozása a pszichológiai képességfejlesztő tréning (PST; Lange-Smith et al., 2023). Ez egy összefoglaló megnevezés, ami több pszichológiai megközelítés technikáját (pl. ...
A tudományos és gyakorlati sportpszichológiában egyre elterjedtebb beavatkozási módszer a Racionális Emotív Viselkedésterápia (REBT), amelynek alapja az irracionális hiedelmek (dogmatikus követelések, alacsony frusztrációs tolerancia, rettegés, becsmérlés) azonosítása és racionálissá alakítása. Ahhoz, hogy a tudományos és az alkalmazott sportpszichológiában egyaránt használható legyen hazai viszonylatban ez az intervenció, elengedhetetlen egy magyar nyelvre validált mérőeszköz kialakítása. Jelen tanulmány célja az eredeti, angol nyelvű Irracionális Teljesítményhiedelmek Leltár (iPBI) magyar nyelvű változatának pszichometriai mutatóinak és faktorszerkezetének vizsgálata sportolói mintán. A kutatásban 334 magyar amatőr és profi sportoló vett részt, akik egyéni, illetve csapatsportot űztek. A nemzetközileg elfogadott fordítási és kulturális adaptáció elveit követve végeztük el a 20 tételes sportolói kontextusra fejlesztett iPBI magyar nyelvű fordítását. A vizsgálatok során a versenyszorongás skálát használtuk a versenyszorongás mérésére. A konstruktum validitás feltárásához megerősítő faktoranalízist, míg a prediktív érvényességhez lineáris regresszió elemzést alkalmaztunk. A belső konzisztencia feltárásához a skálák közötti korrelációs együtthatót vizsgáltuk, míg a megismételhetőség teszteléséhez teszt-reteszt módszertant felhasználó osztályon belüli korrelációs együtthatót alkalmaztunk. Az eredeti 20 tételes változat megerősítő faktoranalízis eredményei nem mutatnak elégséges illeszkedési adatokat. Négy problémás tétel kizárása után megfelelő értékeket jelzett a megerősítő faktoranalízis. Az irracionális hiedelmek előre jelzik a multidimenzionális szorongásmodell mindhárom komponensét (kognitív, szomatikus, önbizalom). A belső konzisztencia- és a teszt-reteszt vizsgálatok is megerősítik a 16 tételes változat megbízhatóságát. A 16 tételes magyar Irracionális Teljesítményhiedelmek Leltár (iPBI-HUN) validitása, reliabilitása és standard értékei a mérőeszköz tudományos és gyakorlati célú felhasználásra egyaránt alkalmasnak bizonyul.
... Coaches have a role in understanding and implementing mental training strategies that suit individual and team needs. As advocates who are experts in the psychological aspects of sports, sports psychologists can help develop effective mental training programs and facilitate athletes' understanding and use of appropriate mental training techniques [13]. With mental training in sports, athletes can experience various benefits. ...
Mental training has been recognized as an important component in improving sports performance. This article presents a literature review to identify and analyze effective mental training strategies for improving sports performance. The method used in this research is a literature review by collecting and analyzing related scientific studies from various data sources. The literature review included studies conducted within a relevant time and related to this topic. The literature review results showed that several mental training strategies have been proven effective in improving sports performance. These strategies include visualization, cognitive mapping, positive affirmations, emotion regulation, attention focus, and neurolinguistic programming. Visualization is a technique that involves creating a clear and detailed mental image of the movement or action to be performed in sports. Cognitive mapping involves visual images to improve processes and enhance the sport experience. Positive affirmation involves repeating positive thoughts or sentences to build confidence and increase motivation. Emotion regulation involves managing and controlling emotions that arise during practice and competition. Attention focus consists in shifting attention to what is relevant and important in sports. Neurolinguistic programming involves communication techniques and mental representations to change unwanted thoughts and behaviours. This literature review proves that mental rehearsal strategies can positively improve sports performance. However, it should be noted that the effectiveness of mental rehearsal strategies may vary depending on the sport context, individual characteristics, and other factors. Therefore, further research is needed to deepen the understanding of the appropriate application and effectiveness of mental training strategies in different types of sports. This study provides valuable insights for coaches, athletes, and sports practitioners to optimize athletes’ potential through appropriate mental rehearsal strategies.
... Sport psychology commonly utilizes and investigates a comprehensive intervention called Psychological Skills Training (PST [1];). This term encompasses various psychological techniques (e. g. relaxation, self-talk, cognitive reframing, etc.), with a particular emphasis on practices aligned with the methodology of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). ...
This paper explores the integration of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) within sports psychology, aiming to enhance athletes' mental health and performance of athletes. Sports psychology, encompassing diverse approaches, prioritizes both the mental well-being and performance of athletes. REBT, a vital component of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), revolves around an individual's beliefs influencing emotional, behavioral, and physiological reactions to events. It identifies and replaces irrational beliefs with rational alternatives, as depicted in the GABCDE model, emphasizing the impact of beliefs on reactions to triggering events. Previous research highlighted the detrimental impact of irrational beliefs on athletes' mental well-being, identifying these beliefs as a significant risk factor for the emergence of mental disorders, which in turn lead to compromised performance. The integration of REBT into sports psychology shows promise in reducing anxiety, perfectionism, and irrational beliefs among athletes. Its flexibility allows for swift and powerful interventions, either individually or in group settings, fostering mental resilience and enhancing performance. Sports psychologists and coaches play pivotal roles in recognizing and addressing athletes' irrational beliefs, fostering a rational mindset conducive to stable and positive performance. Integrating REBT into training and performance enhancement offers athletes a stable mental foundation, improving self-confidence and stress management , thereby optimizing sports performance. Overall, the integration of REBT into sports psychology offers a promising avenue to bolster athletes' mental fortitude, optimize performance, and foster a balanced mental landscape, facilitating the attainment of their athletic goals.
... Research into sports performance has increasingly highlighted the fundamental role of the psychological dimension in performance [1,2]. In this sense, Castro Sanchez et al. [3] and Ring et al. [4] indicated that, besides the fact that psychological factors are able of strongly affecting athletes' behavior, their own performances can be significantly attributed to cognitive and emotional changes they undergo. ...
This study aimed to analyze the effect of a flow training program based on mindfulness applied to young and adult elite handball athletes. A quantitative, quasi-experimental, descriptive data analysis approach was carried out. The sample included 105 athletes (51 female and 54 male). The athletes were divided into two groups: i) experimental (n = 53) and ii) control (n = 52). The results of the repeated ANOVA indicated that the experimental group achieved significant improvements compared to the control group in decision making (n2p=.086), mental well-being (n2p=.045), dispositional flow state (n2p=.103), non-judgment (n2p=.040), refocusing (n2p=.052) and mindful trait in daily life (n2p=.058). In the linear regression test, the factor non-judgment was identified as a predictor of decision making (F(103)=7.99, p=.006) and the predictor for the mental well-being were dispositional flow state (F(102)=29.2, p
... Thirty systematic, meta-analytic, and narrative reviews that (a) examined research involving the use of PST to athletes and (b) summarised the effects of PST treatments on sport performance, or a motor performance-based substitute for a sports activity, were included. 90% of evaluations came to the conclusion that PST treatments might improve performance (Lange-Smith, Cabot, Coffee, Gunnell, & Tod, 2023). ...
Objectives. The study aimed to examine the impact of VMBR training on performing certain table tennis skills. Materials and methods. A total of 50 male state table tennis players, aged between 17 and 23, were selected at the Inspire Table-Tennis Academy in Secunderabad, Telangana. These players were randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group and a control group, each comprising 25 participants. The experimental group underwent a 12-week VMBR training regimen three times a week, while the control group simply continued with their regular daily practice routines. Prior to the study and after the 12-week period, assessments were conducted using Pushpendra Purashwani’s table tennis skill tests, specifically the alternate counter test and the forehand drive techniques on target test, developed in 2011. Statistical analyses involved the application of dependent t-tests and descriptive statistics to evaluate the outcomes. Results. The experimental group’s results indicated that both the alternate counter test and the forehand drive on target test had a marked positive effect on players of table tennis at the 0.01 significance level. The study contributes to our understanding of psychological elements’ crucial role in influencing skill performance. Conclusions. The research delves into how various psychological factors affect performance. Previous studies have demonstrated that visualization and images can significantly enhance performance. Table tennis players can overcome mental hurdles through a systematic psychological technique called rehearsal. This process involves mentally replaying an event in a step-by-step manner. The phases of Visual Motor Behavior Rehearsal (VMBR) that lead to better performance include technique refinement, error analysis and correction, preparation for competition, and enhancement of psychological aspects. Future studies could investigate VMBR’s impact on specific table tennis skills or other sports in order to assist athletes in improving their psychological parameters and performance.
... Research into sports performance has increasingly highlighted the fundamental role of the psychological dimension in performance [1,2]. In this sense, Castro Sanchez et al. [3] and Ring et al. [4] indicated that, besides the fact that psychological factors are capable of strongly affecting athletes' behavior, their own performances can be significantly attributed to the cognitive and emotional changes they undergo. ...
This study aimed to analyze the effect of a flow training program based on mindfulness applied to young and adult elite handball athletes. A quantitative, quasi-experimental, descriptive data analysis approach was carried out. The sample included 105 athletes (51 female and 54 male). The athletes were divided into two groups: (i) experimental (n = 53) and (ii) control (n = 52). The results of the repeated ANOVA indicated that the experimental group achieved significant improvements compared to the control group in decision making (n2p = 0.086), mental well-being (n2p = 0.045), dispositional flow state (n2p = 0.103), non-judgment (n2p = 0.040), refocusing (n2p = 0.052), and mindful traits in daily life (n2p = 0.058). A Pearson analysis demonstrated a positive correlation between dispositional flow state and mindfulness in sport and mental well-being. The correlation analysis also showed an inverse correlation between decision making and sense of control and mindful traits in daily life. The findings revealed that the program can be effective in decision making, mental well-being, dispositional flow state, mindfulness in sport, and mindful traits in daily lives of athletes.
... In a practical context, coaches are urged to engage in pressure training to enhance the readiness of their athletes for competitive situations (Stoker et al., 2016;Low et al., 2023). Similarly, it is recommended that athletes participate in psychological training to cultivate mental skills and effectively apply them under pressure (Lange-Smith et al., 2023). Moreover, coaches should consider psychological training to facilitate effective communication (Mora et al., 2009) with their players, conduct productive training sessions, and provide constructive feedback in both training and competitive environments. ...
This study aimed to analyze the differences in the precompetitive anxiety and self-confidence according to the side of play, the ranking and the match outcome, under different competitive scenarios, in high level men’s padel players from Finland who trained under pressure prior to the competition. 10 men’s padel players (28.60 (4.17) years old) from the highest category participated in the research. The CSAI-2R (Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 Revised) and STAI-S (State–Trait Anxiety Inventory – State) questionnaires were used and descriptive and inferential analyzes were performed, including Mann–Whitney’s U tests. The findings illuminate that, across the player spectrum, somatic anxiety and self-confidence levels are higher before competition compared to training matches. This trend holds true for left-side, higher-ranked and match winning players. Even lower-ranked players exhibit heightened self-confidence preceding competitions. These insights offer valuable considerations for players, coaches, and sports psychologists, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between pressure training, competition, and the athlete’s psychological landscape.
... In recent years, the psychophysiological monitoring of this combination has grown exponentially, thanks to the growing awareness that athletes and coaches are continuously searching for alternative and innovative methodologies for enhancing physical and mental abilities that can be positively correlated with sports performance (Diotaiuti et al., 2021a(Diotaiuti et al., ,b, 2023Siekańska et al., 2021;Hsieh et al., 2023). Athletes, having to manage the times and methods of execution of the technical/athletic gesture, look for programs and technologies that accurately and thoroughly improve their performance (Lange-Smith et al., 2023). An example is given by sports such as archery or shooting where the management of arousal turns out to be a fundamental aspect for dealing with physiological and behavioral conditioning coming from internal and external responses which influence performance (Marzbani et al., 2016;Mikicin et al., 2018;Diotaiuti et al., 2021c). ...
In recent years, the scientific community has begun tо explore the efficacy оf an integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach іn various conditions, both pathological and non-pathological. Although several studies have contributed valuable insights into its potential benefits, this review aims tо further investigate its effectiveness by synthesizing current findings and identifying areas for future research. Our goal іs tо provide a comprehensive overview that may highlight gaps іn the existing literature and propose directions for subsequent studies. The search for articles was conducted on the digital databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies to have used the integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach published between 2014 and 2023 and reviews to have analyzed the efficacy of neurofeedback and biofeedback, separately, related to the same time interval and topics were selected. The search identified five studies compatible with the objectives of the review, related to several conditions: nicotine addiction, sports performance, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach has been shown to be effective in improving several aspects of these conditions, such as a reduction in the presence of psychiatric symptoms, anxiety, depression, and withdrawal symptoms and an increase in self-esteem in smokers; improvements in communication, imitation, social/cognitive awareness, and social behavior in ASD subjects; improvements in attention, alertness, and reaction time in sports champions; and improvements in attention and inhibitory control in ADHD subjects. Further research, characterized by greater methodological rigor, is therefore needed to determine the effectiveness of this method and the superiority, if any, of this type of training over the single administration of either. This review іs intended tо serve as a catalyst for future research, signaling promising directions for the advancement оf biofeedback and neurofeedback methodologies.
... During daily training, athletes can experience chronic stress, negative affect, and depleted mood, as they strive to improve their athletic performance (Rice et al., 2016). In addition to the use of traditional psychological skills to promote athletic performance (Lange-Smith et al., 2023) and psychotherapies to improve mental health outcomes (Stillman et al., 2019), mindfulness intervention is widely considered an effective approach for improving athletic performance and mental well-being (Bühlmayer et al., 2017;Myall et al., 2023). In the context of sports, mindfulness can buffer maladaptive outcomes including stress, negative affect, and maladaptive forms of mood (e.g., depression) among athletes (e.g., Gross et al., 2018). ...
Evidence for the protective role of dispositional mindfulness for athletic performance, stress, and mood among elite athletes has been demonstrated through correlational and interventional studies. The effects of state mindfulness on athletic functioning in day-to-day training contexts remains unclear. We examined the effects of state mindfulness on mood, biological markers of stress, and self-rated athletic performance in elite athletes during daily training. We used a diary study design to collect data on state mindfulness, mood, self-rated athletic performance, and salivary cortisol directly following training sessions of 78 elite athletes. For each athlete, a total of 27 data points were obtained across 9 weeks with data collected on a separate day, 3 days per week. Data were analyzed with multilevel structural equation modeling. At both the between-person and within-person levels, state mindfulness was significantly and negatively related to total mood disturbance and maladaptive dimensions of mood, including anger, confusion, depression, fatigue, and tension. Conversely, state mindfulness was positively related to vigor and self-rated athletic performance. Relations between state mindfulness and biological markers of stress were nonsignificant. Overall, findings of the present study provide preliminary empirical evidence supporting the utility of mindfulness interventions for improving state mindfulness of elite athletes. Such interventions may increase the positive mood of athletes and their performance during training.
... In the event that an athlete feels anxious or unconfident, their skills and good physical condition become ineffectual [31]. According to Lange-Smith, Cabot, Coffee, Gunnell & Tod [32], the key factor to be able to have high performance and compete and be successful in competitive sports is managing the psychological aspect as well as possible. Unfortunately, the psychological aspect is often overlooked because most trainers or coaches focus on building the physical features. ...
Background and Study Aim. This study aims to describe and explore the anthropometric, physical, psychological, and personality traits of elite Papuan Indonesian athletes in seven different sports, namely weightlifting, rowing, cricket, futsal gateball, sailing, and hang-gliding. Material and Methods. A total of 118 athletes (80 men, 38 women with a mean age of 25.05±6.9) from these seven categories were selected. Furthermore, the anthropometric measurement consists of height, weight, and body mass index. At the same time, physical ability is made up of five components, namely flexibility, arm muscle strength, abdominal muscle strength, leg muscle power, and aerobic endurance. The psychological ability and personality characteristics were also measured using the Psychological Skill Inventory for Sport (PSIS) and the Athlete's Personality Inventory (IKA). Results. There were significant differences in the six variables (p<0.01), but no significant difference in the other variables (p>0.05). The six variables include height, BMI, arm and abdominal muscle strength, leg muscle power, and aerobic endurance with F and p-values of 3.052 and 0.008 (p<0.01), 3.497 and 0.003 (p<0.01), 9.822 and 0.001 (p<0.01), 11.855 and .001 (p <0.01), 52.747 and 0.001 (p<0.01), and 11.298 and 0.001 (p<0.01). The other four variables include weight, flexibility, psychological abilities, and personality traits, showed no significant difference (p>0.05). Aerobic endurance variables, in general, had a significant relationship with anthropometric variables and other physical aspects. However, psychological variables and personality characteristics did not significantly correlate with other variables. Conclusions. The anthropometric and physical aspects of athletes tended to have differences based on sports. However, psychological variables and personality characteristics had no relationship with physical and anthropometric aspects.
... Despite some bias detected in the literature, these studies highlight the utility of PST with athletes. However, Lange-Smith et al. (2023) recently rated 97% of the reviews on PST as critically low in quality, raising the need for ongoing research and investigation in this field. ...
The practice of sport psychology has been significantly influenced
by the cognitive-behavioral approach. In particular, psychological
skills training (PST) is an often-researched set of cognitive-behavioral
techniques applied to sports. Recent sport psychology literature
has explored how cognitive-behavioral psychotherapies
(CBTs) can benefit sports. Rational emotive behavior therapy
(REBT) has emerged as an important CBT with clear theoretical
and practical implications for sports. Little has been written about
the confluence of PST and REBT. The current paper proposes and
details the confluence of PST and REBT drawing on core REBT
theory but with an eye firmly on applied sport psychology.
... In the event that an athlete feels anxious or unconfident, their skills and good physical condition become ineffectual [31]. According to Lange-Smith, Cabot, Coffee, Gunnell & Tod [32], the key factor to be able to have high performance and compete and be successful in competitive sports is managing the psychological aspect as well as possible. Unfortunately, the psychological aspect is often overlooked because most trainers or coaches focus on building the physical features. ...
Background and Study Aim. This study aims to describe and explore the anthropometric, physical, psychological, and personality traits of elite Papuan Indonesian athletes in seven different sports, namely weightlifting, rowing, cricket, futsal gate ball, sailing, and hang-gliding.
Material and Methods. A total of 118 athletes (80 men, 38 women with a mean age of 25.05±6.9) from these seven categories were selected. Furthermore, the anthropometric measurement consists of height, weight, and body mass index. At the same time, physical ability is made up of five components, namely flexibility, arm muscle strength, abdominal muscle strength, leg muscle power, and aerobic endurance. The psychological ability and personality characteristics were also measured using the Psychological Skill Inventory for Sport (PSIS) and the Athlete's Personality Inventory (IKA).
Results. There were significant differences in the six variables (p<0.01) but no significant difference in the other variables (p>0.05). The six variables include height, BMI, arm and abdominal muscle strength, leg muscle power, and aerobic endurance with F and p-values of 3.052 and 0.008 (p<0.01), 3.497 and 0.003 (p<0.01), 9.822 and 0.001 (p<0.01), 11.855 and .001 (p <0.01), 52.747 and 0.001 (p<0.01), and 11.298 and 0.001 (p<0.01). The other four variables include weight, flexibility, psychological abilities, and personality traits, showed no significant difference (p>0.05). Aerobic endurance variables, in general, had a significant relationship with anthropometric variables and other physical aspects. However, psychological variables and personality characteristics did not significantly correlate with other variables.
Conclusions. The anthropometric and physical aspects of athletes tended to have differences based on sports. However, psychological variables and personality characteristics had no relationship with physical and anthropometric aspects.
Background: Badminton is a competitive sport requiring physical, tactical, and mental skills. In addition to physical abilities, such as speed, agility, and endurance, psychological skills are essential in determining an athlete's performance. Quick reaction time and practical strategic thinking are two critical elements needed in badminton matches, where athletes must react quickly to opponents and make strategic decisions under pressure. Psychological skills training, which includes attention regulation, stress management, visualization, and emotion regulation, has been identified as an essential factor supporting improving athletes' performance in various sports. However, not many studies have empirically reviewed the effect of psychological skills training on reaction time and strategic thinking, especially in competitive badminton. Study Objectives: This study aims to systematically review the existing literature on the effect of psychological skills training on reaction time and strategic thinking in competitive badminton. As such, the study seeks to identify and evaluate the existing evidence regarding the effectiveness of psychological skills training in improving these two critical components and their implications for enhancing athletes' performance on the field. Materials and Methods: This study is a systematic review that follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Research articles published during a given year and relevant to this topic are collected from various academic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were those that explored psychological skills training in the context of badminton or similar sports and that assessed the impact on reaction time and strategic thinking. Exclusion criteria were applied to irrelevant studies that did not have sufficient empirical data or used non-athlete populations. The study selection process involves screening the title and abstract, followed by a full-text analysis of the eligible articles. Data from each study that met the criteria were analyzed and synthesized to evaluate the consistency of the findings and provide a comprehensive picture of the effects of psychological skills training. Results: Most of the studies reviewed showed that psychological skills training positively impacted the reaction time of badminton athletes. Training in relaxation, concentration, and visualization techniques has proven effective in helping athletes shorten the response time to game stimuli. In addition, strategic decision-making abilities on the field have also improved significantly through the application of psychological skills, especially when athletes are faced with high-pressure situations. These studies also show that psychological skills training improves physical performance and helps athletes manage anxiety and increase self-confidence, which affects the quality of tactical decisions made during games. Conclusion: Based on the results of this systematic review, psychological skills training significantly improves reaction time and strategic thinking in competitive badminton. Techniques such as visualization, stress management, and attention focus impact quick response and decision-making in the field. Thus, integrating psychological skills training into badminton athlete training programs can effectively improve competitive performance. Further research is needed to explore the long-term implementation of this training and its effectiveness at different levels of competition.
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan bahan ajar metode dan latihan keterampilan psikologis yang dapat digunakan dalam mata kuliah psikologi olahraga. Dalam mata kuliah psikologi olahraga, teori dan teknik latihan psikologis sudah banyak dikenal dan tidak asing lagi, namun implementasinya dalam kurikulum pendidikan olahraga formal masih sangat minim. Mahasiswa seringkali hanya mendapatkan teori tanpa dibekali dengan panduan praktis yang dapat membantu mereka mengaplikasikan keterampilan tersebut dalam konteks nyata. Oleh karena itu, pengembangan bahan ajar yang tidak hanya berfokus pada teori tetapi juga melibatkan praktik keterampilan psikologis yang aplikatif menjadi sangat penting. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian pengembangan yang menggunakan model ADDIE, yaitu analysis, design, development, implementation, dan evaluation. Populasi dan sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah mahasiswa pendidikan olahraga STKIP Muhammadiyah Sungai Penuh sebanyak 60 orang. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa keterampilan psikomotorik mahasiswa mengalami peningkatan dari kategori rendah pada pretest menjadi sedang pada posttest. Inovasi dari penelitian ini terletak pada pengintegrasian teori dan latihan praktik, yang diharapkan dapat membantu mahasiswa, pelatih, dan praktisi olahraga dalam memahami dan melatih keterampilan psikologis secara efektif. Bahan ajar ini diharapkan dapat menciptakan peningkatan kualitas pelatihan keterampilan psikologis, yang pada akhirnya akan berdampak pada prestasi atlet di masa depan.
Background: Previous research on psychological interventions in sports has primarily focused on elite athletes. Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of psychological interventions, such as self-talk (ST) and imagery (IG), in improving performance and reducing anxiety in various sports. However, limited research has been conducted on the specific application of these techniques in novice female volleyball players, particularly in the early stages of their development. Objectives: To investigate the impact of psychological intervention, specifically ST and IG, on the performance and learning of service skills among novice female volleyball players in the first year of high school. Methods: A semi-experimental study was conducted with 60 adolescent female novice volleyball players. Participants were randomly assigned to four groups: ST, IG, combined ST+ IG, and a control group (physical training only). The study included pre-test, intervention (24 sessions), post-test, and a 2-week delay retention phase. Results: The results demonstrated that both IG and ST, individually or in combination, significantly improved the performance and learning of volleyball serves among the participants. The combination group exhibited the most significant improvement. Conclusions: The findings suggest that psychological interventions, incorporating ST and IG, are more effective than single-component interventions in enhancing motor learning and performance in novice female volleyball players.
Zusammenfassung
Dieser Text nimmt die Erweiterung des Olympischen Mottos zu „citius, altius, fortius – communiter“ zum Anlass, nach der Bedeutung von Gemeinsinn (lat. sensus communis ) im Olympischen Sport zu fragen. Unter Bezugnahme auf eine gesellschaftstheoretische Perspektive argumentieren wir, dass der Gemeinsinn die Fähigkeit des Olympischen Sports bezeichnet, sein normatives Grundprinzip – das Fair Play – zum Thema zu machen. Die Akte der Reflektion haben ihren Ausgangspunkt häufig in individuellen Klagen über unfaire Verhältnisse und fordern dazu auf, traditionelle Verständnisse von Fair Play zu überprüfen. Unter Bezugnahme auf die Athletes‘ Rights and Responsibilities Declaration aus dem Jahr 2018 zeigen wir, dass solche Reflektionen zum einen die inhaltliche Bestimmung von Fair Play im Sinne eines ‚sauberen‘ Sports betreffen. Zum anderen gibt es eine formale Seite, die den individuellen Anspruch auf eine faire Behandlung gegenüber der Verpflichtung, andere fair zu behandeln, priorisiert. Theoretische Überlegungen zum Gemeinsinn im Olympischen Sport haben diese beiden Dimensionen gleichermaßen zu berücksichtigen.
PURPOSE This study aimed to verify the relationship between adolescent athletes’ julsil, competitive trait anxiety, and self-management.METHODS A total of 370 adolescent athletes who were registered with the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee participated in the survey; 24 insincere responses were excluded from the analysis, leaving a total of 346 participants. After verifying the construct validity of the measurement tool used in the survey, statistical and correlation analyses were performed. The research model was subsequently verified using structural equation modeling.RESULTS Adolescent athletes’ julsil had a significant positive effect on selfmanagement but not on competitive trait anxiety. In addition, self-management was found to have a significant negative effect on competitive trait anxiety, and also completely mediated the relationship between julsil and competitive trait anxiety.CONCLUSIONS Adolescent athletes’ julsil does not increase competitive trait anxiety, but rather plays a role in reducing it by increasing self-management. These findings unveil mechanisms through which julsil can be used to enhance athlete performance.
Our aim in the present study was to test the efficacy of a 13-week, 19-session psychological intervention program on young soccer players’ competitive anxiety and their sport psychological profiles. Participants were 37 players in the under-15 age category, of which 18 players formed the experimental group ( M age = 14.67 years, SD = .48) and 19 players formed the control group ( Mage = 14.23 years, SD = .42); this was a quasi-experimental design without random assignment to groups. We had all participants complete the Psychological Inventory of Sport Performance (IPED), the Questionnaire of Psychological Characteristics of Sport Performance (CPRD), and the Competition State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2) before and after the intervention. Results indicated positive effects for the intervention group (but not the control group) on stress control and motivation dimensions of the CPRD, cognitive anxiety and self-confidence on the CSAI-2, and self-confidence and attentional control on the IPED. These results suggest that psychological training for athletes contributes to their improved psychological skills, providing them tools to better adapt to the competitive environment.
The symbiotic relationship between sports practice and psychological well-being has, in recent times, surged to the forefront of academic and public attention. The aim of this narrative review is to comprehensively explore the intricate pathways linking physical engagement in sports to its subsequent impacts on mental health and synthesize the multifarious effects of sports on psychological health, offering insights for integrating physical and psychological strategies to enhance well-being. From neurobiological underpinnings to therapeutic applications, this comprehensive manuscript provides an in-depth dive into the multifaceted world of sports and psychology. Highlighting evidence-based interventions, this review aspires to offer actionable insights for practitioners , athletes, and individuals alike, advocating for a holistic approach to mental well-being. This manuscript highlights the profound impact of sports on mental health, emphasizing its role in emotional regulation, resilience, cognitive function, and treating psychological conditions. It details how sports induce neurochemical changes, enhance brain functions like memory and learning, and aid against cognitive decline. This review also notes the benefits of regular exercise in mood improvement , stress management, and social skill enhancement, particularly when combined with mind-fulness practices. It underscores the importance of considering cultural and gender perspectives in sports psychology, advocating for an integrated physical-psychological approach to promote overall well-being.
The current study explored how applied sport psychology practitioners adopting client-led stances described two of their athlete interactions. Applied sport psychology practitioners (8 female and 12 male, mean age = 33.76 years, SD = 4.70), describing themselves as client-led practitioners, discussed two athlete consultancies during open-ended interviews. Data analysis involved examining the narrative structure of practitioners’ stories and identifying the features of client-led service delivery present in the accounts. The participants’ stories reflected a collaborative empiricism narrative in which they collaborated with athletes to resolve client issues. The stories contained features of client-led person-centered therapy and the use of practitioner-led techniques and interventions. The results point to applied implications such as providing accounts of service delivery on which practitioners can reflect as they consider the ways they wish to help clients.
Background
Psychological interventions are commonly applied in sports to help athletes enhance their performance, but the effect psychological interventions have on actual performance is unclear despite decades of research.
Objective
We conducted a systematic review with meta-analyses to investigate the effects of a wide range of psychological interventions on performance in competitive athletes.
Methods
A study protocol was preregistered in PROSPERO, and a literary search was performed in the MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus databases. Psychological intervention studies were eligible by using a group design and a quantitative performance outcome with athletes competing at a regional or university level or higher. Included studies were assessed regarding intervention characteristics, research methodology, and risk of bias. A multi-level meta-analysis framework with cluster robust variance estimation was used to quantitatively synthesize the results.
Results
A total of 111 studies met the inclusion criteria, and 25 of these studies (37 effects) could be synthesized into five meta-analyses in which there were similarities in the type of psychological intervention, comparator, and experimental design. Meta-analyses I (multimodal psychological skills training vs control), II (mindfulness- and acceptance-based approaches vs control), and III (imagery vs control) consisted of parallel-group studies, and random-effects models were used to calculate the standardized mean difference. Meta-analyses IV (attentional focus strategies, external vs internal) and V (regulatory focus performance instructions, prevention vs promotion) consisted of counterbalanced crossover design studies, and random-effects models were used to calculate the standardized mean change using change score standardization. Significant results were found in three of the meta-analyses (I, II, and III). Psychological skills training (g = 0.83, 95% confidence interval 0.21–1.45), mindfulness- and acceptance-based approaches (g = 0.67, 95% confidence interval 0.01–1.32), and imagery (g = 0.75, 95% confidence interval 0.14–1.36) outperformed controls with moderate effects. However, when non-randomized trials and subjective performance outcomes were removed in sensitivity analyses, the overall estimates of the effect size were no longer significant in any of the syntheses.
Conclusions
The significant moderate effects for psychological skills training, mindfulness- and acceptance-based approaches, and imagery are not stable, and further trials with robust research methodology, such as randomized controlled trials, are requested for all types of psychological interventions aiming to enhance performance in athletes. Moreover, improved reporting standards and the provision of datasets in open science repositories are important to consider in future trials in sport psychology.
Clinical Trial Registration
PROSPERO CRD42017056677.
Mental practice is the cognitive rehearsal of a task prior to performance. Although most researchers contend that mental practice is an effective means of enhancing performance, a clear consensus is precluded because (a) mental practice is often defined so loosely as to include almost any type of mental preparation and (b) empirical results are inconclusive. A meta-analysis of the literature on mental practice was conducted to determine the effect of mental practice on performance and to identify conditions under which mental practice is most effective. Results indicated that mental practice has a positive and significant effect on performance, and the effectiveness of mental practice was moderated by the type of task, the retention interval between practice and performance, and the length or duration of the mental practice intervention.
Imagery interventions are an established psychological tool to enhance performance, psychological skills, and injury rehabilitation. Previous meta-analyses found positive effects of mental practice on performance, leaving it open whether imagery can also enhance outcomes other than performance such as motivational or affective outcomes. We performed a meta-analysis to extend the current understanding of the effectiveness of imagery in sports on any sport specific outcome and the relevance of additional variables potentially moderating the effect. The overall effect of imagery interventions was medium in magnitude with d = 0.431 (95% CI [0.298, 0.563]). Imagery interventions significantly enhanced motor performance, motivational outcomes, and affective outcomes. Summarized across all outcomes, imagery combined with physical practice was more effective than physical practice alone, indicating differential effects of imagery and physical practice. We found the same pattern of result for performance outcomes. The effectiveness of imagery was positively associated with the intensity of the imagery training. We discuss our results against previous meta-analyses on mental practice and the background of theoretical and practical aspects of imagery. Moreover, we lay out directions for future research by providing a comprehensive overview of research gaps in the literature on imagery.
Background:
Overviews of reviews (i.e., overviews) compile information from multiple systematic reviews to provide a single synthesis of relevant evidence for healthcare decision-making. Despite their increasing popularity, there are currently no systematically developed reporting guidelines for overviews. This is problematic because the reporting of published overviews varies considerably and is often substandard. Our objective is to use explicit, systematic, and transparent methods to develop an evidence-based and agreement-based reporting guideline for overviews of reviews of healthcare interventions (PRIOR, Preferred Reporting Items for Overviews of Reviews).
Methods:
We will develop the PRIOR reporting guideline in four stages, using established methods for developing reporting guidelines in health research. First, we will establish an international and multidisciplinary expert advisory board that will oversee the conduct of the project and provide methodological support. Second, we will use the results of comprehensive literature reviews to develop a list of prospective checklist items for the reporting guideline. Third, we will use a modified Delphi exercise to achieve a high level of expert agreement on the list of items to be included in the PRIOR reporting guideline. We will identify and recruit a group of up to 100 international experts who will provide input into the guideline in three Delphi rounds: the first two rounds will occur via online survey, and the third round will occur during a smaller (8 to 10 participants) in-person meeting that will use a nominal group technique. Fourth, we will produce and publish the PRIOR reporting guideline.
Discussion:
A systematically developed reporting guideline for overviews could help to improve the accuracy, completeness, and transparency of overviews. This, in turn, could help maximize the value and impact of overviews by allowing more efficient interpretation and use of their research findings.
Imagery is a frequently used mental performance skill that has been advocated as an invaluable tool by athletes, coaches, and sport psychology professionals. As such, athletes competing in powerlifting can benefit from the use of imagery toward the improvement of individualized mental and physical skills. To provide coaches and athletes with a theoretical and practical understanding of the imagery–performance relationship; this article (a) provides an overview of the PETTLEP model, (b) reviews the benefits of imagery on both the physical and psychosocial outcomes for powerlifting athletes, and (c) provides recommendations for practical use in strength and conditioning contexts.
Background
Midwives’ practices during the second stage of labour vary nationally and internationally. We aim to retrieve evidence that supports high-quality intrapartum care by conducting a systematic review of the literature.
Methods
Electronic bibliographic databases including PubMed, EMBASE.com, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsycINFO, Maternity and Infant Care Database (through MIDIRS), and The Cochrane Library will be searched to identify studies that meet the inclusion criteria. No language or publication date constraints will be applied. Articles that pass the two-stage screening process will then be assessed for risk of bias and have their reference lists hand searched.
Discussion
A midwife’s practice can be influenced by education and cultural practices but ultimately it should be informed by up-to-date research evidence. By analysing and synthesising the results of the studies, this systematic review will provide valuable insight into high-quality evidence-based midwifery care, which can inform practice, education and future research.
Systematic review registration
PROSPERO CRD42018088300
Electronic supplementary material
The online version of this article (10.1186/s13643-018-0916-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Objective
Evidence syntheses such as systematic reviews and meta-analyses provide a rigorous and transparent knowledge base for translating clinical research into decisions, and thus they represent the basic unit of knowledge in medicine. Umbrella reviews are reviews of previously published systematic reviews or meta-analyses. Therefore, they represent one of the highest levels of evidence synthesis currently available, and are becoming increasingly influential in biomedical literature. However, practical guidance on how to conduct umbrella reviews is relatively limited.
Methods
We present a critical educational review of published umbrella reviews, focusing on the essential practical steps required to produce robust umbrella reviews in the medical field.
Results
The current manuscript discusses 10 key points to consider for conducting robust umbrella reviews. The points are: ensure that the umbrella review is really needed, prespecify the protocol, clearly define the variables of interest, estimate a common effect size, report the heterogeneity and potential biases, perform a stratification of the evidence, conduct sensitivity analyses, report transparent results, use appropriate software and acknowledge the limitations. We illustrate these points through recent examples from umbrella reviews and suggest specific practical recommendations.
Conclusions
The current manuscript provides a practical guidance for conducting umbrella reviews in medical areas. Researchers, clinicians and policy makers might use the key points illustrated here to inform the planning, conduction and reporting of umbrella reviews in medicine.
Systematic reviews are generally placed above narrative reviews in an assumed hierarchy of secondary research evidence.
We argue that systematic reviews and narrative reviews serve different purposes and should be viewed as complementary.
Conventional systematic reviews address narrowly focused questions; their key contribution is summarising data.
Narrative reviews provide interpretation and critique; their key contribution is deepening understanding.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Choking under pressure describes suboptimal sport performance in stressful situations, which has led to two fundamental ‘choking’ models: distraction and self-focus. The purpose of this review was to provide an overview of empirical studies that have tested interventions used to alleviate choking. The systematic review includes 47 empirical studies published up to April 2017, including experimental, quasi-experimental, and single-case studies with athletes. These studies encompassed a variety of interventions (n = 13) that were either distraction based or self-focus based. In addition, a third group – acclimatisation interventions – was identified. The results indicate that, in general, choking interventions based on both choking models and on acclimatisation provide a benefit to performance under pressure. The most reported effective interventions were pre-performance routines, quiet eye training, left-hand contractions, and acclimatisation training. The use of dual task was beneficial for performance under pressure but harmful when used in training. Mixed evidence was found for analogy learning, and null effects were reported for goal setting, neurofeedback training, and reappraisal cues. These results may help athletes and coaches select and implement effective strategies and methods to improve performance under pressure.
Background: Mindfulness and experiential acceptance approaches have been suggested as a method of promoting athletic performance by optimally managing the interplay among attention, cognition, and emotion. Our aim was to systematically review the evidence for these approaches in the sporting domain. Method: Studies of any design exploring mindfulness and acceptance in athletic populations were eligible for inclusion. We completed searches of PsycINFO, Scopus, MEDLINE, and SPORTDiscus in May 2016. Two authors independently assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool, and we synthesised the evidence using the GRADE criteria. Results: Sixty-six studies (n = 3908) met inclusion criteria. None of the included studies were rated as having a low risk of bias. Compared to no treatment in randomised trials, large effect sizes were found for improving mindfulness, flow, and performance, and lower competitive anxiety. Evidence was graded to be low quality, meaning further research is very likely to have an important impact on confidence in these effects. Conclusions: A number of studies found positive effects for mindfulness and acceptance interventions; however, with limited internal validity across studies, it is difficult to make strong causal claims about the benefits these strategies offer for athletes.
The number of published systematic reviews of studies of healthcare interventions has increased rapidly and these are used extensively for clinical and policy decisions. Systematic reviews are subject to a range of biases and increasingly include non-randomised studies of interventions. It is important that users can distinguish high quality reviews. Many instruments have been designed to evaluate different aspects of reviews, but there are few comprehensive critical appraisal instruments. AMSTAR was developed to evaluate systematic reviews of randomised trials. In this paper, we report on the updating of AMSTAR and its adaptation to enable more detailed assessment of systematic reviews that include randomised or non-randomised studies of healthcare interventions, or both. With moves to base more decisions on real world observational evidence we believe that AMSTAR 2 will assist decision makers in the identification of high quality systematic reviews, including those based on non-randomised studies of healthcare interventions.
Background:
Mindfulness as a present-oriented form of mental training affects cognitive processes and is increasingly considered meaningful for sport psychological training approaches. However, few intervention studies have examined the effects of mindfulness practice on physiological and psychological performance surrogates or on performance outcomes in sports.
Objective:
The aim of the present meta-analytical review was to examine the effects of mindfulness practice or mindfulness-based interventions on physiological and psychological performance surrogates and on performance outcomes in sports in athletes over 15 years of age.
Data sources:
A structured literature search was conducted in six electronic databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, ISI Web of Knowledge, PsycINFO, MEDLINE and SPORTDiscus). The following search terms were used with Boolean conjunction: (mindful* OR meditat* OR yoga) AND (sport* OR train* OR exercis* OR intervent* OR perform* OR capacity OR skill*) AND (health* OR adult* OR athlete*).
Study selection:
Randomized and non-randomized controlled studies that compared mindfulness practice techniques as an intervention with an inactive control or a control that followed another psychological training program in healthy sportive participants were screened for eligibility.
Data extraction:
Eligibility and study quality [Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro)] scales were independently assessed by two researchers. A third independent researcher was consulted to achieve final consensus in case of disagreement between both researchers. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated as weighted Hedges' g and served as the main outcomes in comparing mindfulness practice versus control. Statistical analyses were conducted using a random-effects inverse-variance model.
Results:
Nine trials of fair study quality (mean PEDro score 5.4, standard deviation 1.1) with 290 healthy sportive participants (athletics, cyclists, dart throwers, hammer throwers, hockey players, hurdlers, judo fighters, rugby players, middle-distance runners, long-distance runners, shooters, sprinters, volleyball players) were included. Intervention time varied from 4 weeks to over 2 years. The practice frequency lasted from twice daily to just once a week, and the mean session time covered 50-60 min. In favor of mindfulness practice compared with the control condition, large effects with narrow confidence limits and low heterogeneity were found for mindfulness scores [SMD 1.03, 90% confidence interval (CI) 0.67-1.40, p < 0.001, I (2) = 17%]. Physiological performance indices depicted wide confidence limits accompanied with very large heterogeneity. However, the effect sizes remained very large, with confidence limits that did not overlap zero (SMD 3.62, 90% CI 0.03-7.21, p = 0.10, I (2) = 98%). Moderate to large effects were observed for both psychological performance surrogates (SMD 0.72, 90% CI 0.46-0.98, p < 0.001, I (2) = 14%) and performance outcomes in shooting and dart throwing (SMD 1.35, 90% CI 0.61-2.09, p = 0.003, I (2) = 82%).
Conclusions:
Mindfulness practice consistently and beneficially modulates mindfulness scores. Furthermore, physiological and psychological surrogates improved to a meaningful extent following mindfulness practice, as well as performance outcomes in shooting and dart throwing. It seems reasonable to consider mindfulness practice strategies as a regular complementary mental skills training approach for athletes, at least in precision sports; however, more high-quality, randomized, controlled trials on mindfulness practice and performance improvements in diverse sport settings are needed.
Aim is to determine if the training with heart rate variability biofeedback allows to improve performance in athletes of different disciplines. Methods such as database search on Web of Science, SpringerLink, EBSCO Academic Search Complete, SPORTDiscus, Pubmed/Medline, and PROQUEST Academic Research Library, as well as manual reference registration. The eligibility criteria were: (a) published scientific articles; (b) experimental studies, quasi-experimental, or case reports; (c) use of HRV BFB as main treatment; (d) sport performance as dependent variable; (e) studies published until October 2016; (f) studies published in English, Spanish, French or Portuguese. The guidelines of the PRISMA statement were followed. Out of the 451 records found, seven items were included. All studies had a small sample size (range from 1 to 30 participants). In 85.71% of the studies (n=6) the athletes enhanced psychophysiological variables that allowed them to improve their sport performance thanks to training with heart rate variability biofeedback. Despite the limited amount of experimental studies in the field to date, the findings suggest that heart rate variability biofeedback is an effective, safe, and easy-to-learn and apply method for both athletes and coaches in order to improve sport performance.
Background
Synthesis of multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in a systematic review can summarize the effects of individual outcomes and provide numerical answers about the effectiveness of interventions. Filtering of searches is time consuming, and no single method fulfills the principal requirements of speed with accuracy. Automation of systematic reviews is driven by a necessity to expedite the availability of current best evidence for policy and clinical decision-making.
We developed Rayyan (http://rayyan.qcri.org), a free web and mobile app, that helps expedite the initial screening of abstracts and titles using a process of semi-automation while incorporating a high level of usability. For the beta testing phase, we used two published Cochrane reviews in which included studies had been selected manually. Their searches, with 1030 records and 273 records, were uploaded to Rayyan. Different features of Rayyan were tested using these two reviews. We also conducted a survey of Rayyan’s users and collected feedback through a built-in feature.
Results
Pilot testing of Rayyan focused on usability, accuracy against manual methods, and the added value of the prediction feature. The “taster” review (273 records) allowed a quick overview of Rayyan for early comments on usability. The second review (1030 records) required several iterations to identify the previously identified 11 trials. The “suggestions” and “hints,” based on the “prediction model,” appeared as testing progressed beyond five included studies. Post rollout user experiences and a reflexive response by the developers enabled real-time modifications and improvements. The survey respondents reported 40% average time savings when using Rayyan compared to others tools, with 34% of the respondents reporting more than 50% time savings. In addition, around 75% of the respondents mentioned that screening and labeling studies as well as collaborating on reviews to be the two most important features of Rayyan.
As of November 2016, Rayyan users exceed 2000 from over 60 countries conducting hundreds of reviews totaling more than 1.6M citations. Feedback from users, obtained mostly through the app web site and a recent survey, has highlighted the ease in exploration of searches, the time saved, and simplicity in sharing and comparing include-exclude decisions. The strongest features of the app, identified and reported in user feedback, were its ability to help in screening and collaboration as well as the time savings it affords to users.
Conclusions
Rayyan is responsive and intuitive in use with significant potential to lighten the load of reviewers.
Background
One of the best sources for high quality information about healthcare interventions is a systematic review. A well-conducted systematic review includes a comprehensive literature search. There is limited empiric evidence to guide the extent of searching, in particular the number of electronic databases that should be searched. We conducted a cross-sectional quantitative analysis to examine the potential impact of selective database searching on results of meta-analyses. Methods
Our sample included systematic reviews (SRs) with at least one meta-analysis from three Cochrane Review Groups: Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI), Infectious Diseases (ID), Developmental Psychosocial and Learning Problems (DPLP) (n = 129). Outcomes included: 1) proportion of relevant studies indexed in each of 10 databases; and 2) changes in results and statistical significance of primary meta-analysis for studies identified in Medline only and in Medline plus each of the other databases. ResultsDue to variation across topics, we present results by group (ARI n = 57, ID n = 38, DPLP n = 34). For ARI, identification of relevant studies was highest for Medline (85 %) and Embase (80 %). Restricting meta-analyses to trials that appeared in Medline + Embase yielded fewest changes in statistical significance: 53/55 meta-analyses showed no change. Point estimates changed in 12 cases; in 7 the change was less than 20 %. For ID, yield was highest for Medline (92 %), Embase (81 %), and BIOSIS (67 %). Restricting meta-analyses to trials that appeared in Medline + BIOSIS yielded fewest changes with 1 meta-analysis changing in statistical significance. Point estimates changed in 8 of 31 meta-analyses; change less than 20 % in all cases. For DPLP, identification of relevant studies was highest for Medline (75 %) and Embase (62 %). Restricting meta-analyses to trials that appeared in Medline + PsycINFO resulted in only one change in significance. Point estimates changed for 13 of 33 meta-analyses; less than 20 % in 9 cases. Conclusions
Majority of relevant studies can be found within a limited number of databases. Results of meta-analyses based on the majority of studies did not differ in most cases. There were very few cases of changes in statistical significance. Effect estimates changed in a minority of meta-analyses but in most the change was small. Results did not change in a systematic manner (i.e., regularly over- or underestimating treatment effects), suggesting that selective searching may not introduce bias in terms of effect estimates.
Research linking the "quiet eye" (QE) period to subsequent performance has not been systematically synthesized. In this paper we review the literature on the link between the two through non-intervention (Synthesis 1) and intervention (Synthesis 2) studies. In the first synthesis, 27 studies with 38 effect sizes resulted in a large mean effect (d̄ = 1.04) reflecting differences between experts' and novices' QE periods, and a moderate effect size (d̄ = .58) comparing QE periods for successful and unsuccessful performances within individuals. Studies reporting QE duration as a percentage of the total time revealed a larger mean effect size than studies reporting an absolute duration (in ms). The second synthesis of 9 articles revealed very large effect sizes for both the quiet-eye period (d̄ = 1.53) and performance (d̄ = .84). QE also showed some ability to predict performance effects across studies.
Background
Psychologists are increasingly supporting the quest for performance enhancement in sport and there is a need to evaluate the evidence base underpinning their work.
Objectives
To synthesize the most rigorous available research that has evaluated psychological, social, and psychosocial interventions with sport performers on variables relating to their athletic performance, and to address some of the perplexing issues in the sport psychology intervention literature (e.g., do interventions have a lasting effect on sport performance?).
Methods
Randomized controlled trials were identified through electronic databases, hand-searching volumes of pertinent journals, scrutinizing reference lists of previous reviews, and contacting experts in the evaluation of interventions in this field. Included studies were required to evaluate the effects of psychological, social, or psychosocial interventions on sport performance in athletes when compared to a no-treatment or placebo-controlled treatment comparison group. A random effects meta-analysis calculating the standardized mean difference (Hedges’ g), meta-regressions, and trim and fill analyses were conducted. Data were analyzed at post-test and follow-up (ranging from 1 to 4 weeks after the intervention finished) assessments.
Results
Psychological and psychosocial interventions were shown to enhance sport performance at post-test (k = 35, n = 997, Hedges’ g = 0.57, 95 % CI = 0.22–0.92) and follow-up assessments (k = 8, n = 189, Hedges’ g = 1.16, 95 % CI = 0.25–2.08); no social interventions were included or evaluated. Larger effects were found for psychosocial interventions and there was some evidence that effects were greatest in coach-delivered interventions and in samples with a greater proportion of male participants.
Conclusions
Psychological and psychosocial interventions have a moderate positive effect on sport performance, and this effect may last at least a month following the end of the intervention. Future research would benefit from following guidelines for intervention reporting.
Background
Qualitative systematic reviews or qualitative evidence syntheses (QES) are increasingly recognised as a way to enhance the value of systematic reviews (SRs) of clinical trials. They can explain the mechanisms by which interventions, evaluated within trials, might achieve their effect. They can investigate differences in effects between different population groups. They can identify which outcomes are most important to patients, carers, health professionals and other stakeholders. QES can explore the impact of acceptance, feasibility, meaningfulness and implementation-related factors within a real world setting and thus contribute to the design and further refinement of future interventions. To produce valid, reliable and meaningful QES requires systematic identification of relevant qualitative evidence. Although the methodologies of QES, including methods for information retrieval, are well-documented, little empirical evidence exists to inform their conduct and reporting.
Methods
This structured methodological overview examines papers on searching for qualitative research identified from the Cochrane Qualitative and Implementation Methods Group Methodology Register and from citation searches of 15 key papers.
Results
A single reviewer reviewed 1299 references. Papers reporting methodological guidance, use of innovative methodologies or empirical studies of retrieval methods were categorised under eight topical headings: overviews and methodological guidance, sampling, sources, structured questions, search procedures, search strategies and filters, supplementary strategies and standards.
Conclusions
This structured overview presents a contemporaneous view of information retrieval for qualitative research and identifies a future research agenda. This review concludes that poor empirical evidence underpins current information practice in information retrieval of qualitative research. A trend towards improved transparency of search methods and further evaluation of key search procedures offers the prospect of rapid development of search methods.
Background Researchers have tested the beliefs of
sportspeople and sports medicine specialists that cognitive
strategies influence strength performance. Few investigators
have synthesised the literature.
Objectives The specific objectives were to review evidence
regarding (a) the cognitive strategy–strength performance
relationship; (b) participant skill level as a
moderator; and (c) cognitive, motivational, biomechanical/
physiological, and emotional mediators.
Method Studies were sourced via electronic databases,
reference lists of retrieved articles, and manual searches of
relevant journals. Studies had to be randomised or counterbalanced
experiments with a control group or condition,
repeated measures, and a quality control score above 0.5
(out of 1). Cognitive strategies included goal setting,
imagery, self-talk, preparatory arousal, and free choice.
Dependent variables included maximal strength, local
muscular endurance, or muscular power.
Association and dissociation (A/D) have been identified as important cognitive strategies in the literature on running and exercise. This paper is a comprehensive review of the 20 years of research in the area. Specific topics addressed include historical context, definition and terminology considerations, measurement and design issues, and findings as they pertain to performance, injury, and pain. Several research recommendations are made including change from using the term dissociation, use of multiple measurement methods, diversity of research designs, and study of topics, such as injury, exercise adherence, and emotionality, as they relate to A/D. Finally, practical findings indicate that association relates to faster performance, dissociation relates to lower perceived exertion and possibly greater endurance, and dissociation is not related to injury but association may be.
The purpose of the study was to examine the effects of instructional and motivational self-talk on the performance of a sit-up task. Previous research has found a lack of performance differences between these two self-talk groups and a control group. Motivational interpretations of self-talk and self-efficacy are two mechanisms that may account for this result and so these two mechanisms were assessed in the present study. Forty-four undergraduates completed a modified crunch test on three occasions. Inspection of the manipulation check surveys revealed that a priori treatment groups were not obtained. Thus, the original experimental design was not possible. Subsequent post-hoc correlational analyses indicated that both self-talk dimensions were positively related to self-efficacy, self-efficacy was positively associated with performance, but neither self-talk dimension was related to performance. The implications of these results for experimenters and practitioners were discussed.
Objectives
There has been considerable inconsistency and confusion in the definition of elite/expert athletes in sport psychology research, which has implications for studies conducted in this area and for the field as a whole. This study aimed to: (i) critically evaluate the ways in which recent research in sport psychology has defined elite/expert athletes; (ii) explore the rationale for using such athletes; and (iii) evaluate the conclusions that research in this field draws about the nature of expertise.
Design
Conventional systematic review principles were employed to conduct a rigorous search and synthesise findings.
Methods
A comprehensive literature search of SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES and Academic Search Complete was completed in September, 2013 which yielded 91 empirical studies published between 2010 and 2013. The primarily qualitative findings were analysed thematically.
Results
Eight ways of defining elite/expert athletes were identified, ranging from Olympic champions to regional level competitors and those with as little as two years of experience in their sport. Three types of rationale were evident in these studies (i.e., “necessity”, “exploratory” and “superior”); while findings also indicated that some elite athletes are psychologically idiosyncratic and perhaps even dysfunctional in their behaviour. Finally, only 19 of the 91 included studies provided conclusions about the nature of expertise in sport.
Conclusions
This study suggests that the definitions of elite athletes vary on a continuum of validity, and the findings are translated into a taxonomy for classifying expert samples in sport psychology research in future. Recommendations are provided for researchers in this area.
Presents an analysis and synthesis of research that addressed the efficacy of psychological interventions designed to enhance the performance of collegiate and adult athletes in competitive situations. 19 studies covering a total of 23 interventions were reviewed. Three categories of interventions were identified: relaxation training, behavioral techniques, and cognitive restructuring. Findings indicate that educational relaxation-based interventions and remedial cognitive restructuring interventions with individual athletes were generally effective. Recommendations are offered for future studies on the effectiveness of psychological interventions with athletes. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
To increase young people's physical activity (PA) levels it is important to understand the correlates of PA in children and adolescents. We sought to identify factors associated with children's and adolescents’ PA by reviewing systematic quantitative reviews of non-intervention research. Systematic reviews examining associations between quantitatively measured variables and PA in young people (< 19 years) from 2000–2010 were identified using electronic and manual searches. Nine systematic reviews were identified. Demographic/biological correlates of PA were age and gender. Psychological correlates of PA were positive motivation, positive body image and the existence of barriers to PA. Behavioural correlates of PA were previous PA, sport participation, smoking, and sedentary behaviour. Social/cultural correlates of PA were parental influence and social support, and environmental correlates of PA were access to facilities, distance from home to school, time spent outside, and local crime. The evidence is suggestive of a number of different types of correlates of PA for children and adolescents. Beyond age and gender, though, most are likely to have only small or small-to-moderate effects in isolation and may work best in interaction with other influences. Psychologists must look to social, organisational and community-level correlates in addition to individual correlates.
A longstanding research question in the sport psychology literature has been whether a given amount of mental practice prior to performing a motor skill will enhance one's subsequent performance. The research literature, however, has not provided any clear-cut answers to this question and this has prompted the present, more comprehensive review of existing research using the meta-analytic strategy proposed by Glass (1977). From the 60 studies yielding 146 effect sizes the overall average effect size was .48, which suggests, as did Richardson (1967a), that mentally practicing a motor skill influences performance somewhat better than no practice at all. Effect sizes were also compared on a number of variables thought to moderate the effects of mental practice. Results from these comparisons indicated that studies employing cognitive tasks had larger average effect sizes than motor or strength tasks and that published studies had larger average effect sizes than unpublished studies. These findings are discus...
The English language is generally perceived to be the universal language of science. However, the exclusive reliance on English-language studies may not represent all of the evidence. Excluding languages other than English (LOE) may introduce a language bias and lead to erroneous conclusions.
We conducted a comprehensive literature search using bibliographic databases and grey literature sources. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they measured the effect of excluding randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reported in LOE from systematic review-based meta-analyses (SR/MA) for one or more outcomes.
None of the included studies found major differences between summary treatment effects in English-language restricted meta-analyses and LOE-inclusive meta-analyses. Findings differed about the methodological and reporting quality of trials reported in LOE. The precision of pooled estimates improved with the inclusion of LOE trials.
Overall, we found no evidence of a systematic bias from the use of language restrictions in systematic review-based meta-analyses in conventional medicine. Further research is needed to determine the impact of language restriction on systematic reviews in particular fields of medicine.
Based on the premise that what people think influences their actions, self-talk strategies have been developed to direct and facilitate human performance. In this article, we present a meta-analytic review of the effects of self-talk interventions on task performance in sport and possible factors that may moderate the effectiveness of self-talk. A total of 32 studies yielding 62 effect sizes were included in the final meta-analytic pool. The analysis revealed a positive moderate effect size (ES = .48). The moderator analyses showed that self-talk interventions were more effective for tasks involving relatively fine, compared with relatively gross, motor demands, and for novel, compared with well-learned, tasks. Instructional self-talk was more effective for fine tasks than was motivational self-talk; moreover, instructional self-talk was more effective for fine tasks rather than gross tasks. Finally, interventions including self-talk training were more effective than those not including self-talk training. The results of this study establish the effectiveness of self-talk in sport, encourage the use of self-talk as a strategy to facilitate learning and enhance performance, and provide new research directions.
© The Author(s) 2011.
The purpose of this review was to systematically identify and evaluate the psychosocial interventions used to manage a component of the stress process in competitive sport performers. Inclusion criteria were devised to select research relevant to the topic area. Studies were assessed for inclusion by examining their title, abstract, and then full text. Based on the outcome of this process, 64 studies were included in the review. These studies encompassed a variety of cognitive (n = 11), multimodal (n = 44), and alternative interventions (n = 9). The results indicate that, in general, a variety of stress management interventions are associated with athletes’ optimized stress experience and enhanced performance. The findings suggest that the effectiveness of stress management is moderated by a number of diverse design features (e.g., treatment adopted, stress component outcome measured). These design features are important to consider when designing interventions for athletes of varying sports, ages, and competitive standards.
This article presents a systematic review of the literature examining the relationship between self-talk and performance. "Second-generation questions" regarding potential mediators and moderators of the self-talk-performance relationship were also examined. A total of 47 studies were analyzed. Results indicated beneficial effects of positive, instructional, and motivational self-talk for performance. Somewhat surprisingly, two evidence-based challenges to popular current viewpoints on self-talk emerged. First, negative self-talk did not impede performance. Second, there was inconsistent evidence for the differential effects of instructional and motivational self-talk based on task characteristics. Results from the mediation-based analysis indicate that cognitive and behavioral factors had the most consistent relationships with self-talk. The findings are discussed in the context of recent theoretical advances, and the article includes recommendations for future research (e.g., the use of designs allowing the testing of meditational hypotheses) and for current applied practice (e.g., avoiding the use of thought-stopping techniques).
With a ‘downpour’ of studies being published there is an increasing need to synthesize existing research to inform policy, practice and research. Umbrella reviews adopt explicit and systematic methods to search for, and identify, multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses to compare and contrast findings of individual reviews, and provide an overall picture of findings for a particular research question. Using research on physical activity and mental health as a test case, we identified and assessed 11 umbrella reviews using recommended criteria from the Cochrane collaboration (Pollock et al., 2020 Pollock, M., Fernandes, R. M., Becker, L. A., Pieper, D., Hartling, L. (2020). Chapter v: Overviews of reviews. In J. P. T. Higgins, J. Thomas, J. Chandler, M. Cumpston, T. Li, M. J. Page, & V. A. Welch (Eds.), Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of interventions version 6.1 (updated September 2020). Cochrane, 2020. [Google Scholar]). Our findings suggest that many methodological components of umbrella reviews were done well by the included reviews and are in line with best practice in conducting systematic reviews. Some issues, specific to umbrella review methodology, need further attention in future reviews. These include dealing explicitly with potential primary study overlap, using MeSH terms in search strategies, detailing the data extraction process and presenting all necessary information from primary studies and included systematic reviews. Opening an umbrella with these considerations in mind will help sport and exercise psychology researchers conduct such reviews in the future.
This article presents a scoping review of the published literature on mental imagery in the context of volleyball. Four online databases and one peer-reviewed journals were searched, based on the inclusion criteria. Publication information, procedures and research methods, sample characteristics, sport type and type of mental imagery were analyzed. The selection process found 52 studies, and results showed that from 1987 to 2018 the mental images, along with other psychological skills, have gained popularity in volleyball settings. The examined studies used cross-sectional and experimental approaches, and the analysis was assessed by quantitative data and/ or mental imagery training programs (with relaxation and scripts), mainly focusing on the isolated analysis of the mental imagery construct, and evaluating its use. The studies included both male and female participants, but only 11% were volleyball players. Additionally, the focus was on adolescents and young adult athletes, mostly from high school/ university or international/ elite levels. However, just two studies examined athletes under the age of 16. Considering the present study’s results, limitations, and its implications for practice (e. g. to provide the coach certification programs with specific mental imagery contents), future research directions were highlighted, such as improve mental imagery training programs for children and youth volleyball players.
The revised edition of the Handbook offers the only guide on how to conduct, report and maintain a Cochrane Review ? The second edition of The Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions contains essential guidance for preparing and maintaining Cochrane Reviews of the effects of health interventions. Designed to be an accessible resource, the Handbook will also be of interest to anyone undertaking systematic reviews of interventions outside Cochrane, and many of the principles and methods presented are appropriate for systematic reviews addressing research questions other than effects of interventions. This fully updated edition contains extensive new material on systematic review methods addressing a wide-range of topics including network meta-analysis, equity, complex interventions, narrative synthesis, and automation. Also new to this edition, integrated throughout the Handbook, is the set of standards Cochrane expects its reviews to meet. Written for review authors, editors, trainers and others with an interest in Cochrane Reviews, the second edition of The Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions continues to offer an invaluable resource for understanding the role of systematic reviews, critically appraising health research studies and conducting reviews.
This book offers a conceptual and practical guide to the systematic review process and its application to sport, exercise, and physical activity research. It begins by describing what systematic reviews are and why they assist scientists and practitioners. Providing step-by-step instructions the author leads readers through the process, including generation of suitable review questions; development and implementation of search strategies; data extraction and analysis; theoretical interpretation; and result dissemination.
Conducting Systematic Reviews in Sport, Exercise, and Physical Activity clarifies several common misunderstandings including the difference between qualitative systematic reviews and meta-analyses . Each chapter begins with a set of learning objectives focused on practical application, illustrated with examples from reviews published within the sport, exercise, and physical activity fields. Once a reader has completed all the learning activities along the way, they will have designed a systematic review and have written a protocol ready for registration. The book ends with a collection of advice from internationally regarded scientists with substantial experience in systematic reviews.
David Tod is Senior Lecturer in sport psychology at Liverpool John Moores University, UK. He teaches modules in systematic reviewing and supervises postgraduate students undertaking systematic reviews and meta-analyses. He is part of a systematic review research group at Liverpool John Moores University. David is Associate Editor for three journals and regularly reviews systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Research has identified psychological skills and characteristics (PSCs) perceived to facilitate talented youth athletes’ development. However, no systematic categorisation or synthesis of these PSCs exists to date. To provide such synthesis, this systematic review aims to: (i) identify PSCs perceived as facilitative of talented youth athletes’ development; (ii) group and label synonymous PSCs; and (iii) categorise PSCs based on definitions established in Dohme, Backhouse, Piggott, and Morgan (2017). PRISMA systematic review guidelines were employed and a comprehensive literature search of SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, and ERIC completed in November 2017. Twenty-five empirical studies published between 2002 and 2017 met the inclusion criteria. Through thematic analysis, 19 PSCs were identified as facilitative of youth athletes’ development. Eight PSCs were categorised as psychological skills (e.g., goal-setting, social support seeking, and self-talk) and eleven as psychological characteristics (e.g., self-confidence, focus, and motivation). The practical implications of these findings are discussed.
The purpose of this article is to describe a periodized, or temporally phased, approach to building confidence in athletes. A periodization approach to building confidence involves helping athletes move through the sequential phases of developmental, preparatory, and performance confidence that lead into Execution Mode just prior to and during the competitive event. An evaluation phase after the event is then integrated into the process of developmental confidence to continue the periodization cycle. Examples of the focus needed and specific activities that could be used in each confidence-building phase are provided.
Objectives: Evidence concerning physical activity and mental health remains less well documented for children and adolescents. An updated review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses was undertaken concerning physical activity and mental health in children and adolescents, and to judge the extent to which associations can be considered causal. Methods: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses were identified to update our previous review of reviews (Biddle & Asare, 2011), with papers identified between November 2010 and the end of 2017. Criteria were used to judge causality (Hill, 1965), including strength of association, dose-response association, and experimental evidence. Results: Since 2011, the quantity (k = 42 reviews) and quality of research has increased in depression (evidence from 10 reviews), self-esteem (10 reviews) and cognitive functioning (25 reviews). Anxiety had only three new, small, reviews. Intervention effects for depression are moderate in strength while observational data show only small or null associations. Variable effect sizes are evident from interventions for the reduction of anxiety and improvement in self-esteem. Higher or improved fitness and physical activity are associated with better cognitive health and performance. There was partial support for a causal association with depression, a lack of support for self-esteem, but support for cognitive functioning. Conclusions: There are significant increases in research activity concerning physical activity and depression, self-esteem, and cognitive functioning in young people. The strongest evidence for a causal association appears to be for cognitive functioning, and there is partial evidence for depression.
Investigations into the process of mentally practicing a perceptual motor skill began about 30 years ago. However, there has been a marked increase in the amount of interest in this area of research in the last 10 years. This is the first of two articles, which together aim to present a critical review of work so far completed, possible explanations of the phenomenon, and an indication of the directions that future research might take. In this article the evidence for improvement under conditions of mental practice is reviewed.
Objective:
An Overview of Systematic Reviews (OoSRs) is a study designed to synthesize multiple evidence from existing systematic reviews on a specific domain. The aim of this paper was to offer a pilot version checklist with Preferred Reporting Items for OoSRs (PRIO-harms) in order to promote a more balanced reporting of benefits and harms in OoSRs of healthcare interventions.
Methods:
The included items were developed by combining key features from healthcare OoSRs designs with recommendations from statements of other relevant checklists and pertinent methodological review articles. Two raters independently used the PRIO-harms checklist to assess a sample of 20 OoSRs.
Results:
The PRIO-harms tool consists of a 27-item (56 sub-items in total) checklist and is accompanied by a five-stage process flow diagram (identification, screening, eligibility, inclusion and separation of relevant studies). The mean inter-rater reliability (Gwet's AC1 statistic) between reviewers was 0.90 (95%CI: 0.88, 0.92) indicating a very good agreement.
Conclusion:
The PRIO-harms tool can be used in every OoSRs that addresses healthcare interventions. This instrument will assist overview authors to improve completeness and transparency of research reporting with emphasis on harms. However, it might benefit from critical review and further validation from experts and research teams that produce OoSRs.
Inconsistencies in the use and definition of psychological terms within the talent development literature have been identified. To advance the scientific field, the creation of a shared language is recommended. This review aimed to systematically (1) identify terms used in empirical studies to describe psychological components purported to facilitate athletes’ development; (2) analyse the definition and meanings of these terms; and (3) group, label, and define terms into meaning clusters. A systematic review using a narrative approach to synthesise information was conducted. A comprehensive literature search of SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, and ERIC was completed in May 2015. In total, 21 empirical studies, published between 2002 and 2015, met the inclusion criteria and were included in the narrative synthesis. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the findings. Identified psychological terms were categorised as psychological skills or psychological characteristics. Psychological skills were defined as athletes’ ability to use learned psychological strategies (e.g., self-talk) to regulate and facilitate the enhancement of psychological characteristics. Psychological characteristics were defined as predispositions that impact upon athlete development (e.g., self-confidence). Despite being relatively enduring and consistent across a range of situations, psychological characteristics can be regulated and enhanced through the use of psychological skills.
Objectives: The aim was to provide an overview on the current state of research on acute effects of relaxation techniques in sports. Design: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials was conducted. Methods: PubMed, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and SPORTDiscus were searched until August 2014. Additionally, reference lists of retrieved articles and relevant reviews were hand searched. To be included articles had to examine the effects of relaxation techniques on performance in sports. Furthermore, they had to be published in English, in a peer-reviewed journal, available full text online, and designed as either treatment outcome, clinical trial, and/or randomized controlled trial. The dependent variable had to be a measure of athletic performance. Results: Of the 8,501 articles retrieved after the databased literature search, 21 studies were included in the systematic review. Nine trials dealt solely with somatic relaxation techniques, five with cognitive techniques, and seven trials examined both branches within single studies. Biofeedback and hypnosis were found to be the most effective techniques over a range of performance measures. Conclusions: This review showed that biofeedback and hypnosis can positively influence performance throughout different outcome variables consistently. On the contrary, other techniques that were proven effective in clinical environments did not show consistent results. However, results have to be treated with caution because of considerable lack of quality of some of the trials. Future studies need to consider the methodological flaws as well as the highly individual nature of relaxation techniques.
The field of applied sport psychology has traditionally grounded its performance enhancement techniques in the cognitive-behavioral elements of psychological skills training. These interventions typically advocate for controlling one’s cognitive and emotional processes during performance. Mindfulness-based approaches, on the other hand, have recently been introduced and employed more frequently in an effort to encourage athletes to adopt a nonjudgmental acceptance of all thoughts and emotions. Like many applied interventions in sport psychology, however, the body of literature supporting the efficacy of mindfulness-based approaches for performance enhancement is limited, and few efforts have been made to draw evidence-based conclusions from the existing research. The current paper had the purpose of systematically reviewing research on mindfulness-based interventions with athletes to assess (a) the efficacy of these approaches in enhancing sport performance and (b) the methodological quality of research conducted thus far. A comprehensive search of relevant databases, including peer-reviewed and gray literature, yielded 19 total trials (six case studies, two qualitative studies, seven nonrandomized trials, and four randomized trials) in accordance with the inclusion criteria. An assessment tool was used to score studies on the quality of research methodology. While a review of this literature yielded preliminary support for the efficacy of mindfulness-based performance enhancement strategies, the body of research also shows a need for more methodologically rigorous trials.
The prospect of human psyche-behavioral change has fueled the development and growth of applied sport psychology and psychological intervention with athletes. The purpose of this review is to examine the current status of sport psychology interventions and identify issues related to psychological intervention in sport. The development of sport psychology in North America is overviewed and issues arising from the emergence of applied sport psychology are identified. Sport psychology intervention research is reviewed and it is concluded that the effectiveness of sport psychology interventions is supported in the literature. Problems in intervention research are identified and future directions for sport psychology are suggested. These suggestions include a science-practice integration, the use of idiographic assessment methods, the identification and control of moderator variables, and the contextualization of interventions within the unique environment of sport.
This chapter reviews the literature on mindfulness in sport performance, while attempting to explore possible points of integration between two conceptualizations of mindfulness: Ellen Langer's social psychology-based definition, and the definition of mindfulness that is rooted in Eastern philosophy and has been popularized by author like Jon Kabat-Zinn. Mindful Sport Performance Enhancement (MSPE) and other mindfulness-based interventions designed specifically for athletes are discussed. In addition, an overview of the research examining the associations between mindfulness and important sport performance-related topics is presented, including flow, attention, affect, and physiological factors. Although most existing research has utilized the Eastern perspective, a particular focus is given to the empirical and theoretical connections between sport performance and Langer's conceptualization of mindfulness. These two ideas of mindfulness may complement each other, and future mindfulness-based interventions for athletes may be improved by attempting to integrate them.
The evidence-based practice movement has become an important feature of health care systems and health care policy. Within this context, the APA 2005 Presidential Task Force on Evidence-Based Practice defines and discusses evidence-based practice in psychology (EBPP). In an integration of science and practice, the Task Force's report describes psychology's fundamental commitment to sophisticated EBPP and takes into account the full range of evidence psychologists and policymakers must consider. Research, clinical expertise, and patient characteristics are all supported as relevant to good outcomes. EBPP promotes effective psychological practice and enhances public health by applying empirically supported principles of psychological assessment, case formulation, therapeutic relationship, and intervention. The report provides a rationale for and expanded discussion of the EBPP policy statement that was developed by the Task Force and adopted as association policy by the APA Council of Representatives in August 2005
Mental skills training for sport is reviewed in relation to general cognitive-somatic techniques. These techniques include mental rehearsal, mental imagery and visualization, visuo-motor behavior rehearsal, cognitive-behavior therapy, biofeedback, progressive muscle relaxation and meditation. It is concluded that the initial and continued ability to self-monitor, though enhanced by mental skills training, is fundamentally important for any implementation of cognitive-somatic therapy.
This paper reviews the mental practice literature as well as more current research on the effect of specific mental preparation strategies on skilled performance. A synopsis of the mental practice literature indicated that mental practice was generally effective in enhancing performance. For maximum effectiveness, mental practice should be used in conjunction with physical practice and should not be thought of as a replacement for physical practice. The degree of effectiveness of mental practice is dependent on a number of variables, such as conceptualizing ability, previous experience, task type, and length of practice session. Recently, researchers have begun to study the effect of specific mental preparation on motor performance. Some of the more popular techniques include imagery, selfefficacy statements, attentional focus, preparatory arousal, and relaxation. In addition, several recent techniques such as stress innoculation training and visuomotor behavior rehearsal use a combination of the techniques. Although preliminary empirical research is encouraging, more controlled outcome studies are necessary to determine the effectiveness of these techniques in enhancing skilled performance.
Reviews research examining the role played by variables that mediate the effectiveness of mental practice. A meta-analysis was performed of 21 studies that met the criteria of having both an adequate control and a mental practice alone group. The 44 separate effect sizes resulted in an overall average effect size of .68, indicating that there is a significant benefit to performance of using mental practice over no practice. A series of General Linear Models revealed that the use of internal imagery produced a larger average effect size than the use of external imagery, and that mental practice sessions of less than 1 min or between 10 and 15 min in length produced a larger average effect size than sessions of 3–5 min in length. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
Discusses the development and implementation of 3 strategies (progressive relaxation, mental practice, and hypnosis) to facilitate athletic performance to correct dysfunctional thought, behavior, and emotion to help athletes reach their full potential. Topics highlighted include (1) the relationship between anxiety and athletic performance, (2) theoretical explanations for mental practice effects, (3) the important parameters of the mental practice procedure, (4) the use of hypnosis in athletics, and (5) theoretical explanations of the suggested effects of hypnosis on athletic performance. (French abstract) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
Although the motivational technique of goal setting has consistently and reliably improved performance in industrial psychology research, the beneficial effect has not been demonstrated in the sport domain. Many proposed explanations have resulted in a controversy, but scientists have overlooked the importance of statistical power. A meta-analytic review of the literature investigating the effects of goal setting on performance in sport and exercise could clarify the state of knowledge. The meta-analytic procedures described by L. V. Hedges and I. Olkin (1985) were used to statistically combine 36 studies identified as meeting inclusion criteria. Overall, setting goals improves performance in sport by 0.34 of a standard deviation. Moderate, absolute, and combined short- and long-term goals were associated with the greatest effects. Additional moderator variables were identified, and how they alter the relationship is discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)