A Comparison of Techniques used in the Treatment of Performance Anxiety in Sports and the Clinical Treatment of Phobias
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Authors
Hunt, Kathleen C.
Issue Date
1990
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Anxiety, specifically performance anxiety in sport, and phobias were researched. A literature review discussed the theoretical basis of general anxiety and then more specifically, performance anxiety in sport and phobias. The literature review addressed techniques used by sport psychologists for the treatment of performance anxiety in sport, and techniques used by clinicians for the treatment of phobias. A questionnaire was sent to 50 sport psychologists and 50 clinicians and provided data to establish what techniques were being used in the field. The results showed the techniques used by sport psychologists and clinicians were applicable to either performance anxiety or phobia treatment. The most represented techniques were positive self-talk, relaxation, imagery, and cognitive therapy. Recommendations for the study included researching a larger population to provide a definitive conclusion, and further research on the sport psychologist's perception of role.