Mental Toughness in Sports

Athletes are confronted with a variety of stressors, challenges,  and  adversities,  external  (e.g.,  hostile crowds, referee errors, challenged by an opponent, sport  and  life  balance)  and  internal  (e.g.,  fatigue, self-doubt, emotional instability), which are characteristic of the training and competition contexts of  sport.  Some  athletes  manage  these  demands or  challenges  positively,  either  having  a  smooth

Mentoring in Sport

Mentoring is a process in which a mentor, who is typically more experienced or older, helps a mentee  or  protégé  grow  and  develop  in  some  way. As such, a mentor may be thought of as a guide, tutor,  counselor,  or  adviser.  In  sport  and  exercise psychology (SEP), mentoring is commonly thought of in terms of

Mindfulness in Sports Psychology

Mindfulness  is  a  state  of  non-judging  awareness and acceptance of internal experiences. This state has been achieved through evidence-driven mindfulness-based interventions that are useful for the treatment  of  psychological  concerns  and  for  the enhancement  of  performance  among  athletes  and other  performers.  This  entry  describes  the  basic processes  associated  with  mindfulness,  the  intervention components that enhance

Mirror Neurons

The  term  mirror  neurons  refers  to  neurons  that show  spike  activity  in  response  to  the  performance  of  an  action  and  to  the  perception  of  the same type of action in an observed subject. These neurons, first found in the brain of macaque monkeys,  are  regarded  as  first  evidence  for  a  functional  overlap  between  action  and 

Modeling in Sport

Along with the operationally defined concepts of dynamical systems theory comes a rich arsenal of mathematical  methods  and  modeling  tools  that may  be  usefully  employed  in  the  study  of  complex  sports  behaviors.  This  entry  highlights  just a handful of those, which are all centered on the “problem”  of  dimensionality  reduction.  Before going  into  modeling,  the 

Models Of Emotion – Performance

Emotion is an integral part of human functioning and can enhance or hinder individual and team performance. This entry defines emotion and then provides an overview of theories and models that have been used to explain and describe the relationship between emotion and performance. These include multidimensional anxiety theory (MAT), the individual zones of optimal

Moral Atmosphere

The  concept  of  moral  atmosphere  was  originally  described  by  Lawrence  Kohlberg  and  his associates,  who  investigated  school  and  prison environments  to  determine  the  influence  of  the group  norms  of  these  settings  on  moral  reasoning and behavior. They proposed that, over time, groups  develop  their  own  culture  and  a  shared understanding  of  what  is  appropriate  behavior  as 

Moral Behavior and Sport

The term moral behavior is used with at least two different meanings in the literature. The first is when researchers  explicitly  define  moral  behavior  and refer to the conditions in which an act is right, or ethical; when these conditions are met, the behavior can  be  called  moral.  For  example,  Augusto  Blasi defined  moral  behavior 

Moral Disengagement

Moral  disengagement  is  the  conditional  endorsement  of  transgressive  behavior  through  the  use of  any  of  eight  psychosocial  mechanisms  and  is apparent  in  sport  when  players  rationalize  harmful  behaviors  such  as  injuring  or  deliberately fouling   opponents.   The   eight   mechanisms   of moral  disengagement  operate  by  minimizing  or eliminating  unpleasant  emotional  reactions  (e.g., guilt,  shame)  normally  associated  with 

Moral Judgment

Moral judgment refers to the determination a person  makes  about  an  action  (or  inaction),  motive, situation,  or  person  in  relation  to  standards  of goodness  or  rightness.  People  articulate  a  moral judgment,  for  example,  when  they  say  that  an action is right or wrong, that a person is good or bad, or that a situation is

Moral Reasoning and Sport

Moral reasoning is focused on what, from a moral standpoint,  a  person  should  do  in  a  given  situation.  Moral  reasoning  addresses  issues  of  right and wrong, good and bad, virtue and vice. Moral reasoning  seeks  to  answer  these  questions:  What ought to be done? What is the right thing to do? Athletes  use  moral  reasoning 

Moral Values and Attitudes in Sport

The  study  of  morality  in  sport  has  attracted  the interest   of   many   sport   psychologists,   partly because  of  the  pervasive  and  long-held  belief across  many  scholars  and  lay  people  that  sport builds  character.  Research  in  this  area  of  sport psychology (SP) has looked at whether sport participation  is  indeed  linked  to  moral  behavior  by examining  issues 

Motor Commands in Sport

There are two causes of body movement. First, an external force can act on the person or animal; a strong  gust  of  wind,  for  example,  may  cause  the movement  of  living  organisms.  Second,  through biological machinery such as muscles, force is produced  internally,  leading  to  movement.  The  truly interesting aspect of our movement within a

Motor Control in Sport

Motor  control,  in  reference  to  movements  of  an organism or motions of a robot, is often conceived of as a computational problem. How is something or someone able to move to achieve various environmental  goals?  For  human  movement,  in  particular, the question of how individuals are able to organize the motor system at multiple levels

Motor Learning and Sport

Motor  learning  is  the  shaping  of  individual  sensorimotor  capabilities  by  the  physical  and  social environment. It is based on changes of neural networks of the brain that enable a relatively permanent  improvement  of  performance,  even  though this may not always be manifest. Motor learning is induced by experience or practice and can take place with

Exit Survey

Effective management of human capital provides a means for increasing productivity and reducing costs. The relationship between retention and profitability is clear—fewer turnovers translate to less expense for the organization. Leading organizations understand this fact and track employee attitudes and feedback across the entire employment life cycle (recruitment and on-boarding – integration – departure). These

Gainsharing and Profit Sharing

Gainsharing (GS) and profit sharing (PS) are two pay-for-performance systems used by organizations to reward workers for increased performance at the group, unit, or organization level (Rynes, Gerhart, & Parks, 2005). The ultimate goals of GS and PS plans are improving specific aspects of organizational productivity and improving employee attitudes relating to justice, collaboration, and

Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Issues at Work

Gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) individuals are physically and emotionally attracted to individuals of their own gender. These individuals compose a substantial proportion of the workforce (estimates range from 5%-15%) but face unique challenges because of their sexual orientation. Consequently, researchers and practitioners in industrial/organizational (I/O) psychology have begun to develop frameworks for considering GLB

Human Resources Strategy

Human resources strategy focuses on two primary issues: The degree to which human resources (HR) practices are aligned with business strategies The extent to which these practices influence organizational performance It is also based on three key assumptions: Human resources can be a source of competitive advantage. Human resource practices have a direct influence on

Job Advertisements

Job advertisements are mechanisms used by organizations to communicate employment need. Globally, job advertisements are commonly used by all types of organizations and represent the most prominent form of early contact job seekers have with employers. On any given day, newspapers, magazines, and Web sites feature ads extolling the virtues of employment in millions of

Job Analysis

Job analysis is a label given to the process of obtaining information about jobs, which includes both the description of what is done at work and the specification of what capabilities are needed to perform the work. It is one of the most widely used organizational data collection techniques and forms the foundation on which

Job Analysis Methods

A variety of job analysis methods have been developed over the years. These include work-oriented methods, which seek to describe what a worker does, worker-oriented methods, which seek to identify the characteristics needed to successfully perform job tasks, and hybrid methods, which combine elements of work- and worker-oriented methods. Because of space constraints, only methods

Human Interactions with the Law

In line with general psychological approaches across fields, psychologists who study psychology and the law emphasize the behavior, cognition, emotions, and experiences of individuals involved in the legal system. Of course, all individuals within reach of the United States legal system are involved to some degree. The involvement appears evident for police officers, lawyers, judges

Tensions between Psychology and the Law

The science of psychology exists in a state of tension with the legal system in many ways (Ogloff & Finkelman, 1999). Fundamentally, the goals and processes of investigation in science differ substantially from those of investigation in the law. First, science is inductive. Researchers examine data from many field studies, correlational studies, and experiments and

Job Description

A job description is a written summary of what is done on a job, how the work is accomplished, and why the work is performed. The purpose of a job description is to convey the essential features of a job to a person not familiar with the job in question. Job descriptions are the most

Job Evaluation

Job evaluation may be defined as a systematic, objective process of determining the worth of jobs to an organization. It is important to note that a job evaluation evaluates jobs (e.g., marketing manager, financial analyst) and not the people in those jobs (e.g., Mary Smith; David Johnson). Organizations use the results of this process to

Job Search

Job search can be defined as the specific activities through which effort and time are expended to acquire information about labor market alternatives. Stated more simply, job search is the pursuit of employment. There are few well-developed models of job search. This scarcity results in part from the tendency for organizational scientists to focus on

Job Typologies

A frequent need in organizations and organizational research is to classify individual positions or jobs into groups, with each group internally homogeneous in terms of a profile of relevant psychological characteristics (e.g., abilities) and situational characteristics (e.g., job requirements) and at the same time externally distinct from all other groups. A job typology is either

Occupational Information Network (O*NET)

The Occupational Information Network (O*NET) refers to the database of worker and occupational attributes that succeeds the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) as the primary source of information for occupations in the U.S. economy. Although the DOT had held this title for many years, numerous events— including the explosion of

Older Worker Issues

Older workers compose a growing segment of the workforce who must contend with a variety of distinctive concerns as they navigate their careers. Special concerns include physical, cognitive, and emotional changes that accompany the aging process, sources of work stress for older workers, the specter of age discrimination in employment opportunities, late career and skill

Roles of Psychologists in the Legal System

There are several general roles for psychologists in the legal system, and many specific careers exist in psychology in the law (Bottoms et al., 2004). More generally, psychological researchers can impact the law in a variety of ways. Basic researchers, scientists who seek general or basic knowledge for its own sake, and applied researchers, scientists

Person-Environment Fit

Person-environment (PE) fit refers to the degree of match between individuals and some aspect of their work environment. The concept of PE fit is firmly rooted in the tradition of Kurt Lewin’s maxim that B = /(PE); behavior is a function of both person and environment. The early interactional psychologists emphasized Lewin’s perspective and developed

Person-Organization Fit

Person-organization (PO) fit is defined as the compatibility between people and organizations, which occurs when at least one entity provides what the other needs; they share similar fundamental characteristics; or both. This definition includes examples of mutual need fulfillment, value congruence between individuals and organizations, personality similarity between individuals and other members of the organization

Person-Vocation Fit

The idea that sparked person-vocation (PV) fit came from Frank Parsons, one of the earliest figures in vocational psychology, who believed that people need a clear understanding of themselves and the environment in which they work to be happy in their jobs and careers. PV fit is the relationship between individuals and their vocations or

Placement and Classification

Selection is a personnel decision whereby an organization decides whether to hire individuals using each person’s score on a single assessment, such as a test or interview, or a single predicted performance score based on a composite of multiple assessments. Using this single score to assign each individual to one of multiple jobs or assignments

Prescreening Assessment Methods

Given that most organizations have many more job applicants than they have job openings, employers must be able to quickly and efficiently screen out those applicants who not only fail to meet the minimum qualifications but are also unlikely to be successful on the job if hired. Prescreening assessment methods provide cost-effective ways of selecting

Realistic Job Preview

The primary method of realistic recruitment is the realistic job preview (RJP). The RJP is the presentation of realistic, often quite negative information about an organization to a job candidate. This information is given to job candidates during the selection process to help them make an informed job choice, should a job offer be made.

Recruitment Sources

Recruitment sources are one of the most frequently studied aspects of employee recruitment. Recruitment sources are the avenues that organizations use to reach applicants. Evidence suggests that the choice of recruitment source(s) is a strategic decision, in the sense that there are relationships between recruitment sources and employment outcomes. However, the exact nature and reasons

Retirement

Retirement is a general term that has traditionally referred to older adults’ disengagement from the workforce. As an area of research inquiry, it is a broad concept that has been studied by a number of disciplines, including economics, gerontology, and organizational behavior, as well as developmental and industrial and organizational psychology. Appropriately, these fields have

Interactions between Psychology and Law

Questions of potential interactions between psychology and the law existed long before the founding of the United States or the establishment of a separate United State legal system. For example, Francis Bacon (1857) expressed concerns that inappropriate psychological motives held by some actors in the legal system could compromise the system. He suggested that the

Selection Strategies

Selection and Assessment Consulting Selection strategies differ from organization to organization in any number of ways. Some rely mostly on tests, others on interviews. Some are computer or Web based, others paper-and-pencil tests. Some automatically select candidates out, whereas others inform decisions that select candidates in—and so on. Selection strategies are the result of many

Succession Planning

Succession planning, the process by which an organization makes sure that it will have the right leaders in the right place at the right time, has always been one of the most important accountabilities of the chief executives and top leaders of organizations. However, the importance of succession planning to business success has never been

Underemployment

Underemployment Definition Underemployment refers to employment that is inadequate, inferior, or low quality, relative to some standard. All researchers agree that there is a small handful of distinct types of underemployment, but there is less agreement on exactly what counts as underemployment and how many types there are. Nevertheless, the following experiences are regularly classified

Eyewitness Testimony Research

Across many topics, eyewitness testimony remains a vivacious research area. The American Psychology-Law Society lists more than 1,400 references on the topic from 1883 and 2006. Eyewitness testimony research established roots as a research area in psychology over 100 years ago in Germany. There existed a strong German interest in eyewitness testimony (Sporer, 2006), and

Repressed Memory Research

Repression is a psychological construct with roots in Freudian ego defenses, and repression has existed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) through prior versions and into the current DSM-IV-TR in the diagnostic criteria for dissociative amnesia. Repression emerged into prominence in psychology and the law in the 1980s and 1990s with

Pretrial Publicity Research

Questions regarding pretrial publicity center on the tension between two guaranteed rights in the United States. The First Amendment to the Constitution allows freedom of the press, and the Sixth Amendment provides each defendant the right to a speedy trial before an impartial jury. When the press publicizes details of an ongoing investigation (e.g., prior

Jury Decision Making Research

The jury has been one of the most mysterious forces in United States law. Critics have leveled extensive allegations that juries are unpredictable, unrepresentative of the population of the United States, biased, and irresponsible. Research into jury decision making has shed light on many phenomena in criminal and civil legal systems, but many questions remain.

Abusive Supervision

Abusive supervision refers to sustained displays of nonphysical forms of hostility perpetrated by supervisors against their direct reports. Examples of behavior that fall within the abusive supervision content domain include public derogation, undermining, and explosive outbursts. Key features of the construct are that abusive supervision refers to ongoing manifestations of hostility rather than discrete episodes

Behavioral Approach to Leadership

The behavioral approach to leadership involves attempts to measure the categories of behavior that are characteristic of effective leaders. Two research projects, one at Ohio State University and another at the University of Michigan, are most commonly associated with the behavioral approach to leadership. The results of both research programs suggested that the behavior of

Charismatic Leadership Theory

Charismatic leadership is a relatively new and distinct paradigm. Since the 1970s, researchers have conducted studies on charismatic leadership in areas such as management, academia, the military, and government. Although researchers have used different approaches to study charismatic leadership, their findings have been fairly consistent. Through empirical investigation, researchers have uncovered the key features of

Employee Grievance Systems

Grievance systems are formal organizational procedures designed to address employee complaints. These employee complaints, hereafter referred to as grievances, can range from general disputes about organizational policies (e.g., disputes about interpreting the vacation policy), to specific disputes about how the employee was treated (e.g., conflict with coworkers), to disputes that have legal implications (e.g., racial

GLOBE

The Global Leadership and Organizational Behavior Effectiveness project (GLOBE) is a multiphase, multi-method project designed in the early 1990s by Robert J. House to explore the relationships among societal culture, organizational culture, and leadership. An international team of more than 170 researchers has worked together for more than a decade on this project. Many data

Implicit Theory of Leadership

What is leadership? Is it leaders’ behavior or our image of it? For example, if you are a female manager, how often has an outsider taken you for your own secretary? How often does that happen to your male colleague? This is what research on implicit leadership theories (ILT) focuses on. What are our ideas

Leader-Member Exchange Theory

During the early 1970s, the generally accepted practice for studying leadership was to use an average leadership style—that is, asking subordinates to report on their manager’s leadership style and then averaging their responses across the work unit. Leader-member exchange (LMX) theory, which originated as the vertical dyad linkage (VDL) model, offered a contrast to this

Least Preferred Coworker Theory

The least preferred coworker (LPC) theory, developed by Fred E. Fiedler, has been at the center of controversy almost since its inception. Called the contingency theory or the contingency model of leadership by Fiedler and his associates, the debate over its scientific validity and practical usefulness has sometimes been quite spirited. However, the rate of

Life-cycle Model of Leadership

The situational leadership (SL) theory, developed by Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard, is one of the most widely known frameworks for explaining managerial effectiveness. Although the framework is particularly popular among practicing managers and professional trainers, it has not enjoyed comparable attention from the academic community of industrial/organizational researchers. Nonetheless, the theory is recognized among

Normative Theories

Psychologists who have advanced normative theories of management have typically advocated highly participative processes for making decisions. The principal basis for such prescriptions is the motivational benefit that results from a leader involving group members in decision making. In spite of this advocacy, reviews of the literature suggest a much more mixed picture of the

Reinforcement Theory of Motivation

The operant conditioning or reinforcement theory of B. F. Skinner is one of the major psychological theories concerned with motivation at work. Unique in the social sciences, it identifies two of its major concepts according to the time at which they occur: (1) antecedents, such as communicating company policy, providing training, and setting goals, which

Situational Approach to Leadership

The situational approach to leadership asserts that there is no one best way to lead others and emphasizes that a leader’s style and behavior should depend on the characteristics of his or her followers. Specifically, the situational approach to leadership model provides leaders with insight regarding the most effective leadership style to demonstrate based on

Spirituality and Leadership at Work

A significant change is taking place in the personal and professional lives of leaders as they aspire to integrate their spirituality with their work. Most leaders agree that this integration is leading to positive changes in their relationships and effectiveness. Furthermore, there is evidence that workplace spirituality programs not only lead to beneficial personal outcomes

Path-Goal Theory

The path-goal theory of leadership is a situational theory of leadership and is closely aligned with expectancy theory. The theory holds that the major function of the leader is to enhance subordinates’ instrumentalities, for example, perceived degree of relationship between behavior and outcome; expectancies, such as perceived relationship between effort and behavior; and valences including

Trait Approach to Leadership

The trait approach to leadership was one of the earliest theories of leadership. Although it is not a fully articulated theory with well-developed hypotheses, the trait approach formed the basis of most early leadership research. This approach focuses on the personal attributes (or traits) of leaders, such as physical and personality characteristics, competencies, and values.

Transformational and Transactional Leadership

Transformational leadership is a form of influence based on a developmental relationship that elevates others to higher levels of moral and professional development, promotes adaptability and change, and results in performance beyond expectations. Transactional leadership is a form of influence based on an exchange relationship in which the leader provides direction and rewards in exchange

Trust

Trust is commonly described as a leap of faith one takes in the face of incomplete information. More specifically, trust is a psychological state involving positive expectations about another’s actions despite vulnerability to the other’s actions. Studies have supported theoretical assertions that trust is not related to gullibility, but rather to the ability to take

Assisting the Legal System

Forensic psychology assists the legal system in a number of ways including providing expert testimony in legal, administrative, and legislative proceedings; conducting and testifying about research conducted in anticipation of litigation; testifying about research not conducted in connection with litigation but that is nonetheless relevant; and researching the legal system’s operation. Informing Decision Makers in

Coping Strategies

Coping  refers  to  conscious  and  effortful  cognitions  and  behaviors  used  by  the  athlete  to  manage the perceived demands of a situation. Coping is  of  interest  to  sport  and  exercise  psychologists because  athletes  are  constantly  under  pressure to  perform.  Athletes’  and  coaches’  expectations, injury,  performance  plateaus,  poor  performances, equipment  failure,  superior  opponents,  skill  difficulty,  and  audiences 

What is Credentials?

To  call  oneself  a  psychologist  (at  least  in  the United States and Canada), or use the terms psychologist, psychological, or psychology, one must be  licensed  in  the  state  or  province  in  which  one practices.  However,  if  one  works  in  academia, calling   oneself   a   sport   psychologist   is   an appropriate term to use as it is descriptive

Сue Utilization Theory

Whether  out  of  envy  or  admiration,  people  have long  been  fascinated  by  the  extraordinary  skills of  champion  athletes  such  as  Roger  Federer  (tennis), Michael Phelps (swimming), and Lionel Messi (soccer).  Building  on  this  interest,  recent  years have  witnessed  increasing  collaboration  among researchers  from  cognitive  psychology,  sport  psychology,  and  cognitive  neuroscience  in  studying  the  mental  and 

What is Cultural Competence?

Sport  and  exercise  psychology  has  traditionally been  understood  to  consist  of  a  set  of  skills  and theoretical  underpinnings  distanced  from  culture. These  skills  have  been  taught  in  postsecondary educational  settings  and  presented  in  authoritative textbooks. Although readers might not at first recognize  what  rests  beneath  the  surface  of  these writings, a closer look suggests that

Cultural Safety

Over  the  course  of  the  past  10  years,  there  has been considerable discussion devoted to multicultural  competence  within  the  counseling  professions.  These  discussions  are  only  now  beginning to  surface  within  sport  and  exercise  psychology certification.  The  intent  through  multicultural training  is  to  provide  the  intended  clients  with health  services  that  more  closely  align  with  their

Decision Making

Decision  making  (DM)  is  the  cognitive  operation of selecting a response from a range of available  responses  in  circumstances  where  an  action is needed. DM usually takes place while interacting with either the external environment or internal  desires  and  requirements.  Decisions  may  be made  by  an  individual  or  a  group,  which  mediates between the environment

Decision-Making Styles In Coaching

A critical component of coaching is decision making,  which  is  the  process  of  selecting  an  alternative from among many choices to achieve a desired end. Decisions may involve the training programs; selection  of  team  members;  deployment  of  various strategies, practice, and tournament schedules; choice  of  uniforms;  and  such  other  serious  and simple matters. In fact

Developmental Histories

In  the  context  of  sport,  developmental  histories provide  information  on  an  athlete’s  career  with respect  to  practice  activities  related  to  their  primary  sport.  In  studies  of  elite  athlete  development,  researchers  have  used  carefully  designed questionnaires  or  interview  methods  to  ascertain information  about  the  routes  to  success  in  sport. Methods  for  obtaining  developmental  histories vary with

Diet Drugs

The  World  Health  Organization  defines  obesity and  overweight  as  the  excessive  accumulation of  body  fat  and  warns  that  both  conditions  pose serious threats to health by increasing the risk for chronic diseases like diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular  diseases.  Effective  methods  to  counter obesity include changes in lifestyle, such as engagement  in  physical  activity  and  exercise, 

Disability

What is disability? There are many ways to answer this  question.  But  how  sport  and  exercise  psychologists  define  disability  has  profound  implications. Either intentionally or unintentionally, their perspective  of  disability  will  shape  how  research is carried out, what is deemed valuable in applied practice,  who  is  considered  the  expert,  and  what is to be done

Disability And Exercise

Appropriate  physical  activity  engagement  promotes a host of psychosocial benefits. These benefits  are  especially  valuable  for  individuals  with disabilities  because  they  have  high  rates  of  overweight  and  obesity.  Additionally,  because  people with  disabilities  often  have  associated  secondary conditions  (e.g.,  pressure  sores,  diabetes)  physical  activity  is  particularly  important  as  a  mechanism to prevent or attenuate secondary

Disability Coaching

Optimal  athletic  development  and  sport  success is  almost  always  the  product  of  multiple  factors. Genetics, opportunity, effort, and consistent training over many years are critical. However, quality coaching is also recognized as an important influence  on  athletic  success.  This  entry  discusses  the history and current status of coaching in disability sport,  the  importance  of  quality 

Diversity in Sports

The concept of diversity encompasses a broad range of qualities and characteristics that distinguish people from one another. Diversity is used broadly to refer to demographic characteristics including, but not limited to, sex, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, class, ability status, age, national origin, religious beliefs, and education. Diversity is important for a number of reasons.

Drop-out Meaning

The  term  drop-out  has  two  meanings.  In  elite sport, drop-out refers to a premature termination of  a  sport  career  before  the  athlete  could  reach individual  peak  performance  level.  Drop-out  is  a typical phenomenon among athletes in childhood and adolescence. Therefore, the (young) age of the athlete may be regarded as an important evidence for premature

Drug Use And Control

Drugs are used for performance enhancement purposes  in  elite,  competitive,  and  amateur  sports. Unlike  heroin,  barbiturates,  hallucinogens,  and substances used for recreational purposes   in other  subcultures,  athletes  use  and  abuse  drugs presumed  to  enhance  athletic  ability  and  performance, known as ergogenic substances. The most common  performance-enhancing  drugs  include amphetamines and a range of substances thought

Dual-Task Paradigm

It  has  been  known  for  a  long  time  that  there  are significant  limitations  in  the  human  capability  to attend to and perform two or more tasks concurrently.  Observations  of  the  performance  errors arising from the simultaneous performance of multiple tasks date back at least to the late 19th century and form the basis for cognitive

Dynamical Systems

Every  biological  system—microbe,  athlete,  or team—can  be  described  formally  in  terms  of  its time  evolution  or  dynamics.  This  becomes  feasible  if  one  capitalizes  on  a  crucial  characteristic of  biological  systems,  namely  that  they  exchange energy and matter, and in some cases also information, with their surroundings. In statistical physics, such systems are called open systems

Eating Disorders

The  eating  disorders  of  anorexia  nervosa  and bulimia  nervosa  are  characterized  by  severe  disturbances  in  body  image,  eating,  and  engaging in  compensatory  behaviors  that  result  in  serious medical,  psychological,  and  social  problems.  For example,  eating  disorders  increase  the  risk  of obesity,  nutritional  deficiencies,  depression  and anxiety  disorders,  chronic  pain,  osteoporosis, insomnia,  neurological  symptoms,  cardiovascular problems

Effort

Individuals  possess  a  remarkable  ability  to  detect and  interpret  sensations  arising  from  the  body during  physical  work.  As  noted  by  William  P. Morgan, terms such as perceived exertion, perception of effort, and effort sense have been used to describe  this  psychophysiological  phenomenon. Interest  in  this  aspect  of  performance  was  initiated  by  the  pioneering  work  of 

Ecological Theory

Ecological   theory   is   a   global   perspective   or meta-theory,  because  the  broad  heading  represents   several   scientific   approaches   that   view human  behavior  as  the  result  of  the  relationship  between  individuals  and  their  environments. Ernest Haeckel, German zoologist and evolutionist, coined the term oekology in 1866 to define a field of study that examined organisms in their living

Electroencephalograph

One   approach   to   understanding   the   effects   of  exercise  on  the  brain  and  the  cortical  processes  underlying  peak  performance  is  to  measure  brain  activity  using  electroencephalography. Electroencephalography is a noninvasive technique that  uses  highly  conductive  silver  or  silver  chlochloride  (Ag/AgCl) electrodes to record brain activity,  which is also referred to as electroencephalographic (EEG) activity. The  EEG 

Electromyography

Electromyography (EMG) is an electrical record of muscle activation. It is a measure that is recorded by placing sensors on the skin of a participant and monitoring  changes  in  the  electrical  activity  of the underlying musculature relative to movement. Greater  levels  of  activation  occur  as  motor  unit recruitment  increases  in  order  to  perform  movements successfully.

Emotional Reactivity

Participants in sports and other performance settings routinely encounter emotionally salient cues or  stimuli  that  can  affect  the  quality  and  enjoyment of the activity. Given the emphasis placed on consistently  performing  at  a  high  level,  researchers,  coaches,  consultants,  and  practitioners  have sought to better understand how athletes and other performers  respond  to  various  affective  states.

Emotional Responses

Regular  leisure-time  physical  activity  provides  a boost to positive emotions: Individuals who exercise  are  routinely  found  to  have  lower  levels  of depression, anxiety, stress, and hostility. Moreover, programs of exercise have also been shown to be an effective treatment for depression, with similar findings emerging for anxiety disorders. This entry focuses on the nature of

Emotional Schemas

Emotional  feelings  are  fundamental  aspects  of human  experience.  In  sport,  emotions  have  powerful influences on athletes’ thoughts and actions. The study and explanation of emotions in sport is difficult  because  there  are  many  ongoing  controversies  and  disagreements.  Most  theorists  would agree,  however,  that  emotions  have  motivational and  regulatory  functions,  and  that  there  is  an interface

Activation Strategy

Energizing  strategies,  sometimes  called  activation strategies,  are  primarily  designed  to  increase  the task-specific level of performer’s mental and physical  activity.  They  are  of  interest  to  applied  sport psychologists,  coaches,  and  athletes  alike  as  on occasion  performers  require  strategies  that  help stimulate levels of physical and mental activity. Arousal and Activation Given  their  often  interchangeable  use 

Effects Of Exercise On Energy

For  more  than  100  years,  researchers  have  noted how exercise enhances the subjective sense of mental and physical energy. Affect refers to the quality of a subjective mental state along the dimensions of  valence  (pleasant  or  positive  vs.  unpleasant  or negative)  and  activation  (alert  or  activated  vs. sleepy  or  deactivated).  This  entry  will  summarize research

Enjoyment in Sport

Sport enjoyment, or fun in children’s terms, is the most  important  and  most  studied  positive  emotion  in  youth,  adolescent,  and  elite  sport.  Early youth  sport  research  found  that  fun  was  one  of the  most  important  reasons  given  by  athletes  for choosing  to  participate  in  sports,  and  lack  of fun  was  a  prime  explanation  for  dropping 

What Does Enjoyment Mean?

To  enjoy  means  to  take  pleasure  or  satisfaction from something; enjoyment is the act or condition of enjoying. Thus, enjoyment of physical activity is the act or condition of taking pleasure or satisfaction from physical activity. This entry discusses the conceptualization  and  assessment  of  enjoyment, as well as the role of enjoyment as a predictor

Error Definition

Biological   organisms   cannot   repeat   a   movement  exactly  the  same  way  across  practice  trials or  attempts.  In  other  words,  there  is  an  inherent amount  of  imprecision  in  the  motor  systems  of animals, including humans. This variability can be considered a source of error. Second, in any attempt to  solve  a  new  motor  problem,  whether  a  young

Especial Skills

An  especial  skill  is  a  unique  case  where  one  very specific variation of a motor skill exhibits a markedly  superior  task  performance  in  comparison  to performances  on  all  other  variations  within  the same skill class. This effect has been clearly demonstrated with basketball set shots from the regulation free-throw (foul) line, as well as with

Ethical Issues in Sports

Ethics  is  the  investigation  of  the  primary  moral assumptions held by individuals, organizations, or professions  that  are  used  to  help  members  make sound decisions about what is right and wrong. To expand on this definition, ethics refers to an organization’s attempts to protect the welfare of clients by developing, adopting, and enforcing guidelines that regulate

Ethnicity in Sport

Ethnicity  refers  to  shared  cultural  traditions  and history of a group or population. The collection of people who share an ethnicity is often called an ethnic group. An ethnic group shares a common culture that is reflected in language or dialect, religion, customs,  clothing,  food,  and  music,  literature,  or art. Ethnic groups are often associated

Exercise Dependence

Many people become physically active to improve their health and to look and feel better. But physical activity may become addictive for a small proportion  (3%–5%)  of  the  population.  It  is  important to emphasize that while exercise may represent an addictive  behavior  for  some  people  who  engage in  it  to  an  extreme  and  unhealthy  level, 

Expectancy-Value Theory

Why  do  some  individuals  participate  intensely  in sport activities over many years while others never get  actively  involved  in  sport  or  exercise?  What influences  initial  participation  in  sport  or  exercise?  What  influences  continued  participation? What  influences  the  intensity  of  participation? How do we explain drop-out from sport and exercise  engagement?  How  do  we  explain  both 

Sport Expertise

Expertise  refers  to  the  underlying  qualities  and skills that distinguish highly accomplished people, referred  to  as  experts,  from  lesser  skilled  people. Experts  are  people  who  are  exceptionally  skilled in  a  particular  task  or  domain  and  their  expertise is typically evident across numerous aspects of human performance, including perception, cognition,  and  motor  execution.  Interestingly,  despite the 

Extraversion and Introversion

Extraversion–introversion  is  a  personality  factor that refers to the degree to which a person’s basic orientation  is  turned  inward  (toward  oneself)  or outward  (toward  the  external  world).  Introverts are said to be shy and prefer to work alone; they tend to withdraw into themselves, especially when they  experience  emotional  stress  and  conflict.  In contrast, extraverts

Eye Movement

The eyes perceive spatial information with full acuity when light falls on a small region at the back of the  retina  called  the  fovea.  Because  of  the  small area of the fovea, the area over which we are able to see clearly is only about 2° to 3° of visual angle. Visual angle indicates the

Fair Play

The  purpose  of  fair  play  is  to  ensure  that  every competitor has an equal chance of being successful in any given competition. Fair play is supported by a  philosophic  belief  that  every  player,  team,  official,  and  fan  respects  and  honors  (1)  the  rules  of the game (constitutive, regulatory, and sportsmanship),  (2)  those  who  play  the 

Definition of Fatigue in Sport

Fatigue  is  an  overwhelming  sustained  feeling  of exhaustion  and  decreased  capacity  to  complete physical  and  mental  work.  It  is  multidimensional with emotional, behavioral, and cognitive components.  Feelings  of  fatigue  are  associated  not  only with disease states but also with healthy functioning.  Approximately  20%  of  adults  worldwide report  current  fatigue.  When  examined  in  terms of  physical 

Female AthleteTriad

The  female  athlete  triad  (triad)  refers  to  the  co-occurrence  of  three  interrelated  conditions:  low energy  availability,  menstrual  dysfunction,  and low  bone-mineral  density Factors  within  sport and  exercise  environments  can  increase  the  risk of  developing  these  conditions.  Though  the  prevalence  of  the  full  triad  is  low,  many  girls  and women  will  experience  one  or  two  of 

Feminism in Sports

Feminism is a movement to end oppression, especially  as  it  relates  to  sexism.  Feminism  can  be taken up in many contexts such as sport and exercise, where theorists and practitioners engage with feminist theory, feminist activism, feminist politics, feminist education, feminist class, race, or gender struggle,  and  global  feminism  to  varying  degrees. In  this  entry, 

Body Freezing

Complex  systems  in  nature  are  defined  as  having many individual components that are free to vary and interact with each other, exemplified by a sand pile, a weather system, and social collectives such as  animal  colonies  and  sports  teams.  An  athlete can  also  be  studied  in  this  way.  In  the  complexity sciences, the term degrees

Friendships and Peer Relationships

Peers  have  a  particularly  powerful  social  influence  on  youth  development,  particularly  during adolescence.  Positive  peer  interactions  can  help adolescents acquire a range of skills, attitudes, and behaviors.  In  sport  settings,  high  levels  of  peer support  and  quality  friendships  have  been  associated  with  higher  ratings  of  sport  enjoyment, commitment,  intrinsic  motivation,  and  perceived competence. Definitions Alan 

Functional Variability

To achieve performance goals in competitive sport there is a need to strike a delicate balance between movement pattern stability and variability because, although  athletes  need  to  achieve  consistent  outcomes,  they  also  need  to  be  able  to  successfully adapt  their  movements  to  changes  in  the  performance  environment.  To  achieve  these  aims,  the theory of ecological

Gender in Sport

Gender has a clear and powerful influence in society,  and  a  particularly  powerful  and  persistent influence  in  sport  and  exercise.  Indeed,  the  sport world  seems  to  exaggerate  and  highlight  gender. Sport  and  physical  activities  remain  largely  sex segregated  and  male  dominated.  Gender  is  so embedded that trying to be nonsexist and treating everyone the same

Generalized Motor Program

When learning sequential movements, such as those involved  in  speech  production,  handwriting,  typing, drumming, or sports skills, performers exhibit the ability to modify a learned movement sequence from execution to execution in some ways but not in others. This is thought to occur because a generalized motor program (GMP), which can be used to produce

Nature and Nurture

Conceptualizations  of  the  factors  affecting  skill acquisition  and  the  demonstration  of  expertise generally  reflect  qualities  associated  with  biological factors such as genes (nature) or those related to  environmental  or  experiential  factors  such  as training and coaching (nurture). Historical Background Although  the  conceptualization  of  the  nature versus  nurture  debate  can  be  traced  at  least  to Platonic 

Goal Setting in Sports

A  goal  is  simply  something  you  are  trying  to accomplish;  it  is  the  object  or  aim  of  an  action. Although  goals  can  function  at  an  unconscious level,  the  process  of  goal  setting  represents  the deliberate  establishment  and  refinement  of  goals and  the  evaluation  of  goal  progress.  The  concept of  goals  and  the  practice  of  goal 

Group Characteristics

A group is defined as a social aggregate of two or more people that involves mutual awareness, interaction,  and  interdependence  of  its  members.  The characteristics  of  the  group  shape  the  beliefs  and behaviors of its members. In this entry, two categories of group characteristics are examined, namely (1) characteristics of the group and (2) characteristics

Behavioral Insights from the Framingham Study

This article explores the invaluable behavioral insights derived from the Framingham Study, a landmark in health psychology research. Originating with a focus on cardiovascular health, the Framingham Study’s longitudinal design has provided unparalleled insights into the intricate interplay of lifestyle factors, such as diet, physical activity, and smoking, on heart health. Beyond traditional physiological markers

Psychosocial Factors in Heart Disease

This article explores the intricate relationship between psychosocial factors and heart disease, leveraging data from the Framingham study. Beginning with a concise overview of heart disease’s global impact, the introduction underscores the imperative of understanding psychosocial influences on cardiovascular health. The subsequent sections delve into the nuanced associations between stress, social support, and mental health

Longitudinal Findings on Aging from Framingham

This article delves into the longitudinal findings on aging derived from the renowned Framingham Heart Study, offering a comprehensive examination of three distinct dimensions within health psychology. The introduction sets the stage by providing a succinct overview of the Framingham Heart Study’s significance and the imperative role of longitudinal research in understanding aging processes. The

Genetic Epidemiology in the Framingham Study

This article explores the pivotal role of genetic epidemiology within the Framingham Study, a landmark in health psychology research. Beginning with an overview of health psychology, the narrative delves into the definition and significance of genetic epidemiology, establishing a foundation for understanding its implications in the Framingham Study. The historical context elucidates the study’s inception

The Impact of Framingham on Public Health Policy

This article explores the profound impact of the Framingham Heart Study on public health policy, particularly within the domain of health psychology. Beginning with a historical overview of the study’s initiation, goals, and key findings, the discussion delves into the identification of cardiovascular risk factors and the conceptualization of risk in disease prevention. The subsequent

Risk Assessment Models from Framingham Outcomes

This article delves into the realm of health psychology by examining the pivotal role of Risk Assessment Models derived from the Framingham Outcomes. Commencing with an elucidation of the background and significance of health psychology, the narrative navigates through the inception and objectives of the Framingham Heart Study. The first section delves into the foundational

Framingham and the Study of Women’s Heart Health

This article explores the pivotal role of the Framingham Heart Study in advancing our understanding of cardiovascular health, with a specific focus on its transition to investigating women’s heart health. Beginning in 1948, the Framingham Heart Study has significantly shaped preventive measures and health policies by identifying key cardiovascular risk factors and introducing the Framingham

The Framingham Study’s Role in Preventive Cardiology

This article explores the pivotal role of the Framingham Heart Study in shaping the landscape of preventive cardiology within the realm of health psychology. Tracing the historical trajectory of the study’s inception and objectives, the narrative begins by elucidating the fundamental contributions of the Framingham Study in identifying and defining cardiovascular risk factors, laying the

Framingham Contributions to Lifestyle and Heart Disease

This article explores the invaluable contributions of the Framingham Heart Study to the field of health psychology, specifically in understanding the intricate interplay between lifestyle factors and heart disease. Commencing with an overview of the Framingham Heart Study, the research design, and its historical significance, the paper delves into the identification of key lifestyle components

Framingham and the Future of Cardiovascular Research

This article explores the pivotal role of the Framingham Heart Study in shaping the landscape of cardiovascular research and delineates its profound impact on public health. The introduction sets the stage by elucidating the significance of cardiovascular health and introducing the Framingham Heart Study as a landmark longitudinal research initiative. The first section delves into

Stress and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

This article delves into the intricate relationship between stress and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) within the realm of health psychology. The introduction establishes the foundational concepts of stress and IBS, highlighting the critical link between the two and underscoring the significance of understanding this association. The first section explores the physiological mechanisms governing the stress

Psychological Treatments for Functional Dyspepsia

This article delves into the realm of health psychology, specifically exploring the intricate relationship between psychological treatments and Functional Dyspepsia (FD), a common gastrointestinal disorder. The introduction provides a concise overview of FD and highlights the significance of incorporating psychological interventions in its management. The first section elucidates the role of psychological factors, such as

Brain-Gut Axis in Gastrointestinal Disorders

The Brain-Gut Axis plays a pivotal role in the intricate connection between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal system, wielding significant influence over health and psychological well-being. This article explores the neuroanatomy of the Brain-Gut Axis, elucidating the functions of the central nervous system, Enteric Nervous System (ENS), and the Vagus Nerve in regulating

Coping Strategies for Chronic GI Symptoms

This article explores coping strategies for individuals grappling with chronic gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, emphasizing the intersection of health psychology and the management of persistent digestive disorders. The introduction defines chronic GI symptoms, highlighting their prevalence and profound impact on individuals’ quality of life. The first body section delves into the complexities of chronic GI disorders

Functional GI Disorders in Children

This article delves into the intricate realm of Functional Gastrointestinal (GI) Disorders in Children within the domain of health psychology. The introduction outlines the definition of these disorders, emphasizing their prevalence and the profound impact on children’s overall health. The body of the article is divided into three sections: the classification of prevalent functional GI

Psychological Challenges of Diabetes Management

This article explores the intricate landscape of psychological challenges inherent in the management of diabetes, a prevalent and impactful chronic health condition. Beginning with an introduction to the broader context of diabetes and its prevalence, the discussion delves into the multifaceted psychological aspects of diabetes management. The first section addresses the emotional impact, encompassing stress

Diabetes Education and Behavioral Change

This article explores the vital intersection of diabetes education and behavioral change within the realm of health psychology. Beginning with an introduction to diabetes and its widespread impact, the discussion emphasizes the critical role of behavioral change in effective diabetes management. The article delves into three key sections: theoretical frameworks, components of effective diabetes education

Attribution Theory in Sport

Attributions are explanations about why particular performances  or  behaviors  have  occurred.  When faced  with  important,  negative,  novel,  or  unexpected  events,  individuals  search  for  meaningful explanations for the causes of those events. In this regard, it is widely acknowledged that attributions are  an  area  of  importance  in  the  field  of  applied psychology because of their implications

Emotional Aspects of Living with Diabetes

This article explores the intricate emotional landscape of individuals living with diabetes within the framework of health psychology. The introduction provides a foundational understanding of diabetes and underscores the imperative of addressing its emotional dimensions. The first section delves into the prevalence and impact of depression and anxiety, elucidating the contributing factors and their repercussions

Automaticity in Sport

Automaticity is the ability to execute a skill using no (or very few) information processing resources: attention and working memory. When a skill can be  executed  in  this  fashion,  the  performer  has resources  available  to  process  other  sources  of information  not  directly  required  for  the  task. Automaticity is thought to be a hallmark of expert

Cross-Cultural Training

Participation in a formal cross-cultural training program will prepare people for a successful sojourn in another country. Given the number of adjustments and the amount of potential stress that overseas assignments can entail, this approach, rather than the “sink or swim” approach is recommended (Brislin & Yoshida, 1994; Landis & Bhagat, 1996). People who live

Psychosocial Interventions for Diabetes Control

This article explores the pivotal role of psychosocial interventions in diabetes control within the framework of health psychology. The introduction outlines the prevalence and impact of diabetes, emphasizing the significance of psychosocial factors in managing the condition. The body of the article is divided into three sections: the first delves into the influence of stress

Automaticity: Evaluative Priming

Priming effects occur when the processing of a target  stimulus  is  influenced  by  a  preceding  stimulus  on  the  basis  of  a  relationship  between  prime and target. Processing of the target word surgeon, for example, may be facilitated by the prime word injury. The priming effect in this example is based on  associative  and  non-evaluative  semantic 

Collectivistic Cultures

Collectivistic Cultures Definition Social psychology researchers tend to think about cultures as shared meaning systems that provide the knowledge people need to function effectively in their social environment. To see the importance of shared meaning systems, imagine that you were in a different culture where you did not know the language or the customs. It

Family Support in Diabetes Care

This article explores the pivotal role of family support in diabetes care within the framework of health psychology. Beginning with an overview of diabetes types, the introduction emphasizes the profound impact of this chronic condition on individuals and families, setting the stage for an examination of the vital significance of familial involvement in diabetes management.

Automaticity: Implicit Attitudes

Implicit  attitudes,  also  referred  to  as  automatic evaluations, are immediate and spontaneous evaluations  of  objects,  groups,  or  behaviors  as  being pleasant  or  unpleasant.  They  occur  unintentionally  within  a  fraction  of  a  second  after  exposure to  the  stimulus,  preceding  any  reflective  deliberation.  Typically,  these  attitudes  are  inferred from  systematic  variations  of  performance  on indirect  priming  or 

Cultural Animal

Cultural Animal Definition Cultural animal is a term used to refer to human beings. The core idea is that human beings differ from other animals in the extent to which they create, sustain, and participate in culture. There are hundreds of definitions of culture. Howev er, there are several main themes in understanding what culture

Stress and Glycemic Control in Diabetes

This article delves into the intricate interplay between stress and glycemic control in individuals with diabetes, within the framework of health psychology. The introduction elucidates the definitions of stress and its prevalence among individuals with diabetes, emphasizing the critical importance of glycemic control in managing the condition. The first section explores the relationship between stress

Autonomy-Supportive Coaching

Motivation is one of the foundations of successful sport performance, and coaches play a critical role in developing or undermining this attribute in their athletes.  The  techniques  coaches  use  to  instruct and motivate their athletes can influence whether athletes learn and achieve at a high level, develop a  strong  sense  of  confidence,  enjoy  their  experience

Cultural Differences

Cultural Differences Definition Cultural groups can differ widely in their beliefs about what is true, good, and efficient. The study of cultural differences combines perspectives in psychology and anthropology to understand a society’s signature pattern of beliefs, behavior, and social institutions and how these patterns compare and contrast to those of other cultural groups. Cultural

Coping with Diabetes-Related Complications

This health psychology article explores effective coping strategies for individuals facing diabetes-related complications, emphasizing the importance of addressing both the physical and psychological dimensions of the challenges posed by diabetes. The introduction provides an overview of diabetes and its prevalence, introducing the significance of coping mechanisms in managing complications. The first section delves into understanding

Autonomic Nervous System

The  central  nervous  system  (CNS)  is  composed of  the  brain  and  spinal  cord.  The  CNS  receives sensory  information  from  the  peripheral  nervous  system  and  controls  the  body’s  responses. The peripheral nervous system involves all of the nerves  outside  of  the  brain  and  spinal  cord  that carry messages to and from the CNS. The peripheral nervous

Cultural Disintegration

The term culture has been variously defined, but there is general agreement that, whatever the concept entails, it serves as (1) the “glue” which keeps groups of individuals together as distinct entities, and (2) the means by which individuals adapt to the group and maintain a sense of identity and psychological stability. Cultural disintegration, then

Diabetes and Adolescent Mental Health

This article explores the intricate relationship between diabetes and adolescent mental health within the realm of health psychology. The introduction provides an overview of diabetes prevalence in adolescence, emphasizing the critical need to address mental health aspects in this demographic. The first section delves into the psychosocial factors surrounding diabetes, addressing the impact of chronic

Attentional Focus

The  effect  of  an  individual’s  focus  of  attention  on motor performance and learning has long intrigued both researchers and practitioners. Numerous studies  have  shown  that  what  a  performer  focuses  or concentrates  on  while  executing  a  motor  skill  has an impact how well that person performs the skill. An important distinction is that between an external 

Cultural Diversity

Cultural diversity is a central feature of community psychology. It derives from a general psychological focus on the naturally occurring diversity among people within a context and between groups of people who are a part of different contexts. Implicitly, most theories and practices of psychology have inferred ordinal distinctions among people in a context and

Lifestyle Interventions for Diabetes Prevention

This article explores the pivotal role of lifestyle interventions in the prevention of diabetes, addressing the escalating global prevalence of the condition. The introduction provides context by emphasizing the public health significance of diabetes prevention and underscores the relevance of health psychology in shaping preventive behaviors. The first section delves into the multifaceted nature of

Attachment Theory And Coaching

The aim of attachment theory has largely been to explain  how  relationships  with  parents  in  childhood  have  such  a  persistent  effect  on  personality development. The focus of attachment theory has subsequently been extended from child to adolescent  and  adult  development  and  social  relationships  within  the  context  of  both  contemporary personality and social psychology. Attachment has

Cultural Foundations of Behavior

Marshall McLuhan is quoted as saying that ‘‘It’s a cinch fish didn’t discover water.” Just as clearly, psychologists didn‘t discover culture. Any context for human behavior that is so all-encompassing as culture is for the developing individual is likely to be ignored, or if noticed, to be taken for granted. And just as quickly as

Psychological Screening in Diabetes Care

This article delves into the pivotal role of psychological screening in diabetes care within the framework of health psychology. The introduction provides an overview of diabetes and emphasizes the significance of psychosocial factors in its management. The subsequent sections explore the intricate relationships between stress, depression, and anxiety, and their impact on blood glucose levels

Assimilation in Sport

Assimilation  refers  to  the  integration  of  one  culture  into  another.  This  integration  may  include changes  in  cultural  characteristics  such  as  language,  appearance,  food,  music,  and  religion among   other   customs.   Cultural   values   and beliefs  also  influence  this  integration  of  cultures. Assimilation  is  relevant  to  sport  performance  in that  sports  occur  in  the  context  of  culture,  society, 

Cultural Pluralism

Cultural pluralism is a form of cultural diversity in certain countries where cultures can still maintain their unique qualities and combine to form a larger richer whole. In many countries, including the United States, the term multiculturalism is used synonymously or in place of cultural pluralism. According to Newman (1973, p. 29), societies can range

Psychological Benefits of Health Disclosure

This article explores the psychological benefits of health disclosure within the realm of health psychology, shedding light on the multifaceted advantages of individuals sharing their health-related information. The introduction sets the stage by defining health disclosure and emphasizing its significance in health psychology. The three main body sections delve into the therapeutic value of self-disclosure

Anticipation in Sport

In  sport  and  exercise  psychology,  anticipation usually  refers  to  the  ability  to  quickly  and  accurately predict the outcome of an opponent’s action before  that  action  is  completed.  Skilled  athletes can  use  bodily  cues  to  anticipate  outcomes  at earlier  moments  in  an  action  sequence  than  can unskilled  athletes,  allowing  them  more  time  to perform  an  appropriate 

Culture and Development

Human development takes place in the interaction of a child and the culture in which he or she matures. Culture can be conceived of as knowledge, skills, practices, and values that are created and shared by groups of people. Processes of development and processes of culture are inextricably intertwined. An important aspect of psychological development

Disclosure Decisions in Chronic Illness

This article explores the intricate dynamics of disclosure decisions within the context of chronic illness, shedding light on the multifaceted factors that influence individuals’ choices to reveal their health condition. Delving into the realms of individual, interpersonal, and cultural influences, the first section elucidates how personal beliefs, perceived stigma, social support, and cultural norms intertwine

Neurofeedback in Sport

In  recent  years,  there  has  been  an  increase  in research  and  practical  applications  concerning the use of biofeedback training for athletic performance  enhancement.  It  is  important  to  be  aware that the terms biofeedback and biofeedback training  are  not  identical,  and  therefore  need  to  be defined separately. Biofeedback (BFB) is the output from  an  electronic  device 

Culture and Mental Health

The study of culture and mental health is concerned with understanding the relationships of cultural factors to the etiology, assessment, diagnosis, classification, and treatment of psychopathology. Interest in the study of cultural variables is relatively new although the importance of examining and comparing psychopathology across cultures was first acknowledged in 1904 by the father of

Therapeutic Disclosure in Mental Health

This article delves into the multifaceted domain of therapeutic disclosure in mental health within the framework of health psychology. The introduction elucidates the concept’s definition and underscores its pivotal role in mental health treatment, tracing its historical evolution. The theoretical foundation section explores the interplay between Therapeutic Disclosure and Attachment Theory, Self-Disclosure, and Cognitive-Behavioral perspectives

Biopsychosocial Model Of Injury

There  are  several  prevailing  models  that  connect psychological  factors  and  sport  injury,  each  with slightly  different  perspective  on  relevant  biological,  psychological,  or  social  factors.  Moreover, prevailing  models  have  typically  focused  either on  incorporating  psychosocial  factors  in  predicting  and  preventing  sport  injury  incidence  or upon  identifying  psychosocial  factors  associated with injury recovery and rehabilitation outcomes. Extensive

Culture of Honor

Culture of Honor Definition A culture of honor is a culture in which a person (usually a man) feels obliged to protect his or her reputation by answering insults, affronts, and threats, oftentimes through the use of violence. Cultures of honor have been independently invented many times across the world. Three well-known examples of cultures

Social Support and Disclosure Outcomes

This article delves into the intricate relationship between social support and disclosure outcomes within the realm of health psychology. The introduction provides a succinct overview of the pivotal role social support plays in health contexts, setting the stage for an exploration of theoretical frameworks guiding the understanding of social support mechanisms. The body of the

Body Awareness

Body awareness is described as awareness of, and attentiveness  to,  one’s  internal  bodily  processes and sensations. It is a sensitivity to normal bodily states that is separate from emotion yet originates from  sensory  proprioception  and  introspection and entails one’s focus of attention toward the self. Arguably,   the   most   common   perspectives used  to  understand  body  awareness 

Culture Shock

Some of the earliest records of human culture describe people traveling to foreign lands for trade or conquest. Today people travel in order to find work, to study or teach. They make brief trips (e.g., for vacations) or settle permanently in a country other than their own. Such travel inevitably involves personal contact between culturally

Stigma and Disclosure in Health Conditions

This article explores the intricate dynamics of stigma and disclosure within the realm of health conditions, anchoring its discourse in the principles of health psychology. The introduction sets the stage by defining stigma, emphasizing its pervasive influence in health settings, and outlining the article’s objectives. The first body section delves into a nuanced understanding of

Body Dissatisfaction

Body  dissatisfaction  is  the  negative  subjective evaluation  of  one’s  body  as  it  relates  to  body size,  shape,  muscularity  or  muscle  tone,  weight, and  fitness.  Body  dissatisfaction  is  considered  to be  an  important  negative  affective  factor  related to  body  image.  Typically,  dissatisfaction  involves a  perceived  discrepancy  between  one’s  current body  and  one’s  ideal  body  that  fosters 

Culture-Bound Disorders

Psychological disorders considered specific to particular ethnocultural groups because of distinct cultural factors influencing the etiology, meaning, expression, and for treatment of the disorder are referred to as culture-bound activities. The term is used in contrast to those psychological disorders considered to be “universal.” In its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), the

Disclosure in Patient-Provider Communication

This article explores the pivotal role of disclosure in patient-provider communication within the realm of health psychology. Beginning with an overview of the significance of effective communication in healthcare, the discussion delves into factors influencing patient disclosure, such as trust, cultural considerations, and the fear of judgment. Subsequently, the article elucidates communication strategies that facilitate

Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Muscle Dysmorphia

Most  people  would  like  to  change  something about their physical appearance, and this normative discontent is not usually indicative of a serious body image issue. However, some individuals may feel extreme preoccupation with an aspect of their appearance: they perceive to be flawed. Typically, this  perception  is  inaccurate  or  exaggerated  and indicative of body dysmorphia.

Erotic Plasticity

Erotic Plasticity Definition Erotic plasticity refers to the degree to which the sex drive is shaped by social, cultural, and situational factors. The sex drive refers to the motivation (desire) to have sex. High plasticity indicates that the person’s sexual desires are strongly influenced by social and cultural factors (including meaningful aspects of the immediate

Brain in Sport

Neural  plasticity  is  the  mechanism  by  which  the brain  encodes  experience  and  learns  new  skills, behaviors, and habits in daily life and on the athletic field. Brain cells called neurons form a communication network that serves as the foundation of information processing in the brain. The neural network  of  the  brain  holds  the  capacity  to 

Confidentiality and Disclosure Ethics

The article delves into the crucial realm of confidentiality and disclosure ethics within the domain of health psychology, investigating its theoretical foundations, challenges, and strategies for effective implementation. Beginning with an exploration of the historical and legal frameworks shaping confidentiality in healthcare, the piece highlights the alignment of confidentiality with ethical principles like autonomy, beneficence

Action Theory

Action theory represents a general model of work-related cognition and behavior with implications for a wide range of topics in industrial/organizational psychology. Inspired by Lewin’s field theory, American cybernetic models, and Russian and Polish approaches, German work psychologists initiated the development of action theory in the late 1960s. As the core concept of the theory

Brain Imaging

Neuroimaging  includes  various  techniques  that either directly or indirectly image the structure and the function of the human brain. Thus, neuroimaging  can  be  divided  into  two  categories:  structural imaging and functional imaging. Structural imaging examines the structure of the brain (like gray and white matter) and the possible changes  that  occur  in  these  structures  with 

Health Disclosure in the Digital Age

In the era of the digital age, the landscape of health disclosure has undergone a profound transformation, shaping the dynamics of communication and information sharing within online spaces. This article delves into the intricate intersection of health psychology and digital platforms, exploring the evolving nature of health disclosure in the digital age. The introduction sets

Empowerment

Today, more than 70% of organizations have adopted some kind of empowerment initiative for at least part of their workforce. To be successful in today’s business environment, companies need the knowledge, ideas, energy, and creativity of every employee, from frontline workers to the top-level managers in the executive suite. The best companies accomplish this by

Breathing Exercises

Breathing strategies are often used as the basis for several  advanced  relaxation  techniques,  including progressive  muscular  relaxation,  meditation,  and calming imagery. However, breathing strategies act as  an  important  technique  in  their  own  right  to help  physically  and  mentally  relax  the  performer. Provided here is a synopsis of breathing exercises, based on the guidelines by Jean

Cultural Variations in Health Disclosure

This article delves into cultural variations in health disclosure within the context of health psychology. The introduction establishes the significance of understanding cultural influences on health disclosure, framing the subsequent exploration. The first body section dissects how cultural factors, such as collectivism vs. individualism, communication styles, and stigma around mental health, shape individuals’ willingness to

Expectancy Theory

Among the most influential theories of work motivation to appear during the second half of the 20th century in Western psychology and organizational behavior was, in fact, a body of theories that were all variants of an expected-value formulation. In a nutshell, these theories held in common the premise that the motivational force a person

Burnout in Sport

Modern  sport  culture  is  replete  with  qualities thought to make burnout prevalent, including high training  volumes  and  competitive  demands,  near year-round  training,  and  in  some  sports,  specialization at young ages. Given this sport landscape and the concerns raised by sport scientists and others involved in the sport community (coaches and administrators), the importance of athlete

Disclosure in Sexual Health Education

This article explores the intricate phenomenon of disclosure within the realm of sexual health education, emphasizing its critical role in fostering understanding and promoting positive outcomes. Grounded in established psychological theories such as Social Cognitive Theory, Health Belief Model, and Theory of Planned Behavior, the theoretical framework section provides a foundation for understanding disclosure dynamics

Goal-Setting Theory

An employee’s performance is a function of ability as well as motivation. Ability refers to a person’s knowledge and skill. Knowledge and skill alone do not lead to action. Motivation is the choice to exert effort and to persist, drawing on knowledge and skill, until a desired goal is attained. A typology for understanding motivation

Behavior Change Techniques

The  Coventry,  Aberdeen,  and  London—Refined (CALO-RE)  taxonomy  of  behavior  change  techniques builds on initial work on classifying psychological  techniques  used  in  intervention  to  change behavior,  with  a  particular  emphasis  on  physical activity and healthy eating. The taxonomy aims to provide a common language for the organization, identification,  and  adoption  of  behavior  change techniques  in  interventions. 

Body Image Distortions in Eating Disorders

This article explores the intricate relationship between body image distortions and eating disorders within the domain of health psychology. Beginning with an elucidation of body image distortions and a broad overview of eating disorders, the paper delves into specific manifestations within Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder. Drawing upon empirical studies, the analysis

Human-Computer Interaction

Human-computer interaction (HCI) is a concept addressing a variety of aspects in the interaction between humans and computers. These aspects include how a user commands the computer; how the computer presents information to the users and performs their commands; and how this interaction begins, proceeds, and ends. On a broader scope, HCI is often viewed

Cardiac Function

Cardiac  function  refers  to  the  contraction  of cardiac  muscle,  which  works  as  a  pump  to  send blood  throughout  the  circulatory  system  to  provide  adequate  blood  flow  to  organs  and  tissues. The heart achieves this by contracting its muscular through the aortic valve, into the aorta, and throughout the body. To accomplish this, the heart must 

Psychological Interventions for Anorexia

This article explores the role of psychological interventions in the treatment of anorexia nervosa, a severe and potentially life-threatening eating disorder. The introduction sets the stage by elucidating the prevalence and significance of anorexia, emphasizing the need for a psychological perspective in its treatment. The first section delves into Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), examining its theoretical

Incentives

In the field of human resources and compensation, incentives are specific rewards that are offered contingent on the achievement of some predetermined level of performance, or the performance of some specific type of behavior viewed as desirable by the organization. It could be argued that the earliest systems of exchange between organizations and individuals were

Career Assistance Programs

In order to prepare athletes for and support them during  transitions,  career  assistance  programs (CAPs)  have  been  developed  by  elite  sport  organizations  like  a  national  sport  governing  body, universities,  and  private  organizations.  These CAPs generally consist of an integrated and comprehensive  combination  of  workshops,  seminars, educational  modules,  individual  counseling,  and referral   networks  providing   individualized   or

Eating Disorders: Men and Body Dysmorphia

This article explores the intersection of eating disorders and body dysmorphia in men within the realm of health psychology. The introduction provides an overview of eating disorders, dispels myths surrounding their prevalence in men, and discusses societal pressures contributing to the development of these disorders. The second section delves into the concept of body dysmorphia

Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation

Intrinsically motivated people engage in an activity because they experience it as interesting and enjoyable. Intrinsic motivation is the prototype of autonomous motivation, for people engage in the activity with a sense of self-initiation, freedom, and volition. In contrast, extrinsically motivated people engage in the activity because it is instrumental to a separate, though desirable

Career Transitions

Career  transitions  are  turning  phases  in  athletes’ career  development.  Therefore,  they  should  be first  defined  in  terms  of  their  place  in  the  career context.  The  broadest  career  term  in  psychology is  a  life  career  that  encompasses  an  individual’s life-long development and achievements in various activities and spheres of life that unfold in a particular historical

Family-Based Therapies for Eating Disorders

This article provides an examination of Family-Based Therapies (FBTs) for eating disorders within the realm of health psychology. The introduction outlines the significance of eating disorders, their prevalence, and the consequential impact on both individuals and families. The subsequent section offers an overview of FBTs, delving into the theoretical underpinnings such as Family Systems Theory

Job Characteristics Theory

The primary objectives of job characteristics theory (JCT) are to explain how properties of the organizational tasks people perform affect their work attitudes and behavior, and to identify the conditions under which these effects are likely to be strongest. The most recent version of the theory is shown in Figure 1. As shown in the

Caring Climate

Understanding  and  ultimately  optimizing  the experience   of   individuals   involved   in   physical  activity  is  a  focal  point  in  sport  and  exercise psychology.  From  a  social  cognitive  perspective, perceptions  of  the  psychological  climate  represent  an  individual’s  perceptions  of  what  is  valued,  emphasized,  and  promoted  in  a  particular setting.  Recently,  Maria  Newton  and  colleagues have  identified  a  facet 

Emotional Regulation and Eating Disorders

This article delves into the intricate relationship between emotional regulation and eating disorders within the realm of health psychology. Beginning with an exploration of emotional regulation’s foundational components and its paramount significance in maintaining psychological well-being, the discussion navigates through the landscape of eating disorders, offering insights into their definitions, classifications, and prevalence. The core

Job Design

Job design has generated substantial theoretical and empirical interest in the past decades. The purpose of this article is to describe and evaluate the most significant approaches to job design. Job Design for Individuals Industrial Engineering The first to undertake job design for individuals was Frederick W. Taylor, who developed the industrial engineering or scientific management

Preventing Eating Disorders in Youth

This article explores the imperative task of preventing eating disorders in youth within the realm of health psychology. Beginning with an elucidation of eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, the introduction underscores the prevalence and detrimental impact on youth health. Recognizing the long-term consequences of these disorders, the article posits the

Centering in Sport

Athletes  are  often  faced  with  a  variety  of  factors that can throw off their focus on the athletic task, such  as  worry,  unexpected  events,  and  physical exhaustion. Therefore, it is important for athletes to be able to focus or refocus their attention on the athletic  task,  despite  frequently  changing  circumstances.  In  this  regard,  centering  is 

Job Involvement

Job involvement refers to a state of psychological identification with work—or the degree to which a job is central to a person’s identity. From an organizational perspective, it has been regarded as the key to unlocking employee motivation and increasing productivity. From an individual perspective, job involvement constitutes a key to motivation, performance, personal growth

Career Certifications

Professional certification serves to identify individuals  who  have  obtained  or  maintained  qualifications to perform a specific work responsibility or task. Furthermore, certification indirectly serves to safeguard  the  public  interest  by  assuring  that  the public  can  identify  qualified  professionals.  In  the United  States,  the  Association  for  Applied  Sport Psychology (AASP) certifies master’s and doctoral trained  professionals 

Eating Disorders and Comorbid Psychopathology

This article delves into the intricate relationship between eating disorders and comorbid psychopathology within the domain of health psychology. The introduction establishes the significance of understanding this intersection, outlining the prevalence and incidence rates of eating disorders while emphasizing the importance of examining their concurrent mental health conditions. The subsequent sections explore the three major

Job Rotation

The term job rotation is used to describe two different rotation processes. First, job rotation is used to describe the process of workers with high physical demands or highly repetitive tasks alternating or rotating from these highly physically demanding tasks or from repetitive tasks to other tasks. The rotation may take place to expose the

Character Development

The term character has a long, complex, and controversial history. An old adage holds that “sport builds character” and historically the inclusion of sport  programs  in  educational  settings  often  has been  justified  through  appeal  to  their  supposed character-building  efficacy.  The  following  entry elaborates  on  the  meaning  of  character  and  discusses how sport researchers have dealt

Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Eating Disorders

This article explores the intricate relationship between eating disorders and cross-cultural perspectives within the realm of health psychology. Beginning with a succinct introduction to the prevalent eating disorders—Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder—the article underscores the significance of investigating these phenomena through diverse cultural lenses. The first section delves into the cultural influences

Job Sharing

Job sharing describes the sharing of one full-time job by two part-time employees, requiring interaction and collaboration between two part-time employees in completing work goals. Generally, pay and benefits are distributed equally between the part-time workers involved in job sharing. Objectives of job sharing include improved management of work and family responsibilities, better retention of

Cheating

Cheating  in  sport  is  a  violation  of  an  explicit  or implicit promise to follow the rules of a sporting activity. This promise is an honorable action that an athlete takes to assure the opponent, the fans, and all interested parties that the rules will be followed.  An  example  of  an  explicit  promise  is  the International 

Neurobiology and Psychological Treatments

This article delves into the intricate interplay between neurobiology and psychological treatments within the realm of health psychology. The introduction sets the stage by highlighting the crucial importance of understanding neurobiological mechanisms in the context of mental health. The first section explores the neurobiology of psychological disorders, examining specific brain regions, neurotransmitters, and the role

Need Theories

Among the best-known theories of work motivation in both academic and applied settings are models predicated on the assumption that, at root, humans are need-driven creatures, most of whose behavior can best be understood by examining their need states and identifying the goals or goal states they seek to satisfy their needs. What is a

Choking

Researchers,  spectators  and  performers  alike  are often  intrigued,  and  sometimes  shocked,  if  motivated  people  perform  dramatically  worse  than usual  in  important,  high-pressure  situations.  This can  happen  not  only  in  sports  but  in  almost  any domain in which people are specifically motivated to do well, be it music, surgery, academic examinations, or even a driving test.

Recovery and Relapse in Eating Disorders

This article on recovery and relapse in eating disorders explores the multifaceted nature of the journey towards overcoming eating disorders, emphasizing the significance of recovery and the challenges associated with relapse prevention. The introduction delves into the definition of eating disorders, their prevalence, and the consequential impact on both physical and mental health. The article

Positive Psychology

Positive Psychology History The roots of inquiry into what is good about human nature and optimal human functioning can be traced back to Aristotle. Indeed, the initial impetus of modern psychology was to gain an understanding of transcendent experience. This objective was echoed in humanistic psychology’s interest in the self-actualizing potential of human beings. However

Psychosocial Adaptation to Dialysis

This article explores the intricate interplay between psychosocial adaptation and the challenging realm of dialysis within the domain of health psychology. Following an introduction delineating the concept of psychosocial adaptation and its significance in health psychology, the discussion delves into the psychological challenges faced by individuals undergoing dialysis. These challenges encompass emotional responses such as

Chunking Definition

Cognitive  psychologists  argue  that  over  time, task-related  knowledge  is  organized  into  information-rich  representations  or  chunks,  a  process termed chunking. Dechunking refers to when well developed chunks are broken down into a number of smaller chunks or bits of information. Chunking is a fundamental building block of human memory and underlies the learning of perceptual and

Ethnocentrism

Ethnocentrism Definition Ethnocentrism is the tendency to view the world through the lens of one’s own culture. That is, individuals tend to judge others’ behaviors, customs, beliefs, and attitudes by their own cultural standards. The phenomenon of ethnocentrism is believed to occur largely because individuals have the greatest awareness and information about their own culture

End-of-Life Decision Making in Renal Failure

This article explores the intricate dynamics of end-of-life decision making in the context of renal failure within the framework of health psychology. Beginning with an elucidation of renal failure and its psychological impact, the article delves into the multifaceted factors influencing end-of-life decisions, including patient autonomy, family dynamics, and cultural considerations. It highlights the pivotal

Coach–Athlete Relations

The  coach–athlete  relationship  is  a  unique  interpersonal  relationship  characterized  by  mutually and  interconnected  thoughts,  feelings,  and  emotions  between  an  athlete  and  a  coach.  There  are different  types  of  coach–athlete  relationships, including  traditional  coach–athlete  dyads  (the coach and athlete are not related in any way other than their coaching relationship), married coach– athlete dyads, and family

Self-Concept Theory

The study of work motivation centers on why employees initiate, terminate, or persist in specific work behaviors in organizations. Most traditional theories of work motivation are built on the premise that individuals act in ways that maximize the value of exchange with the organization. However, the nature of an individual’s work motivation may also involve

Coaching Efficacy

Self-efficacy judgments are domain-specific beliefs held  by  individuals  about  their  ability  to  successfully execute differing levels of performance given certain  situational  demands  (a  situation-specific self-confidence). Coaching efficacy is the extent to which a coach believes in the personal capacity to affect the learning and performance of the athletes. Efficacy beliefs of a head coach play

Cognitive Impairment in Renal Disease

This article delves into the intricate relationship between renal disease and cognitive impairment within the domain of health psychology, aiming to provide an understanding of the multifaceted factors contributing to cognitive decline in individuals with renal conditions. The exploration begins with an insightful overview of cognitive functioning affected by renal disease, focusing on memory, attention

Self-Efficacy

Albert Bandura defined self-efficacy as a person’s belief in his or her capability to successfully perform a particular task. Together with the goals that people set, self-efficacy is one of the most powerful motivational predictors of how well a person will perform at almost any endeavor. A person’s self-efficacy is a strong determinant of his

Cognitive Capabilities

In the domain of sport, the term cognitive capabilities refers to the athlete’s aptitude to process, evaluate,  select,  and  compare  information.  Cognitive capabilities are encompassed in the cognitive system and serve as a linkage between the perceptual and motor systems. Thus, these assume the role of interpreters, translating environmental stimuli into meaningful  patterns  for  further 

Emotional Support and Renal Transplant

This article explores the intricate relationship between emotional support and renal transplantation within the realm of health psychology. Beginning with an overview of the renal transplant process, the introduction emphasizes the critical role emotional well-being plays in the journey of both recipients and living donors. The subsequent sections delve into the psychological challenges faced by

Self-Regulation Theory

The term self-regulation refers to a complex and dynamic set of processes involved in setting and pursuing goals. It is commonly used to refer to a broad set of theories that seek to describe, explain, and predict these goal-directed processes. Although many theories of self-regulation exist, each proposing some unique characteristics, researchers generally agree on

Cognitive Function

Cognitive  function  refers  to  the  mental  process of  knowing  or  thinking.  It  involves  all  aspects of  mental  processes  that  enable  individuals  to perceive,   recognize,   process,   and   understand thoughts.  Specifically,  cognitive  function  involves processes such as action, attention, memory, learning,  reasoning,  planning,  problem  solving,  decision making, and communication. These cognitive functions are not only important to

Quality of Life with End-Stage Renal Disease

End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) poses a profound challenge to individuals’ physical, psychological, and social well-being, necessitating a comprehensive exploration of the Quality of Life (QoL) in affected populations. This article delves into the multifaceted aspects of ESRD, providing an overview of its defining characteristics, prevalence, and associated medical complexities. A critical examination of the factors

Social Cognitive Theory

Social cognitive theory explains human accomplishments and well-being in terms of the interplay between individuals’ attributes, their behavior, and the influences operating in their environment. According to this view, people are contributors to their life circumstances, not just the products of them. They are characterized by a number of basic capabilities. These include cognitive, vicarious

Cognitive Restructuring

Cognitive restructuring is a technique that is commonly taught to athletes by sport psychologists in which  self-defeating  thoughts  and  negative  self-statements are identified and substituted with positive, adaptive self-statements, and coping thoughts. Cognitive  restructuring  was  originally  developed in clinical settings and has since been used by practitioners  in  various  contexts  (including  sport)  to address  a 

Impact of Renal Disease on Family Systems

This article explores the intricate interplay between renal disease and family systems, elucidating the multifaceted impact on individuals undergoing the physiological challenges of renal disease and the ripple effects within familial units. Delving into the physiological ramifications, the first section examines the stress and coping mechanisms implicated in response to renal disease, establishing a foundation

Telecommuting

The idea for telecommuting started in the early 1970s. A scientist stuck in Los Angeles traffic reasoned that a good deal of time and stress could be saved by moving the work to the employee instead of always moving the employee to the work. Since that time, communication technologies (e.g., fax, mobile phones, e-mail, the

Cognitive Styles

Broadly defined, cognition refers to mental operations  involving  information  processing  and  thus includes  processes  such  as  perception,  problem solving,  memory  recall,  and  decision  making. The  term  cognitive  styles  refers  to  the  different approaches people characteristically use in undertaking  cognitive  tasks.  Considered  to  be  a  personality  trait  and  representing  both  nature  and nurture  effects,  cognitive  styles 

Patient Education in Renal Disease Management

This article explores the pivotal role of patient education in the management of renal diseases from a health psychology perspective. Beginning with an elucidation of renal disease and its pervasive impact on overall health, the article emphasizes the importance of empowering patients through knowledge. The first section delves into a nuanced understanding of renal disease

Theory of Work Adjustment

The theory of work adjustment (TWA) describes how and explains why workers adjust to their work environments. It depicts adjustment as the interaction of person (P) with environment (E). Interaction refers to P and E acting on as well as reacting to each other. P and E interact because, to begin with, each has requirements

Cognitive Task Analysis

Cognitive  task  analysis  (CTA)  refers  to  a  suite  of scientific  methods  designed  to  identify  the  cognitive  skills,  strategies,  and  knowledge  required  to perform tasks proficiently. The goal of CTA is to use this information to improve instruction, training,  and  technological  design  (e.g.,  decision  aids) for  the  purposes  of  making  work  more  efficient, productive,  satisfying,  and 

Adherence to Treatment in Renal Disease

The article explores the critical topic of adherence to treatment in renal disease within the realm of health psychology. In the introduction, the complex nature of renal disease is briefly outlined, emphasizing the pivotal role adherence plays in managing this condition. The subsequent section delves into the multifaceted factors influencing adherence, categorizing them as patient-related

Two-Factor Theory

Before the mid- to late 1950s, it always made sense to most people who thought about it that the opposite of employee job satisfaction was job dissatisfaction and that the opposite of job dissatisfaction was job satisfaction. The more a person had one of these on the job, the less he or she had of

What is Cohesion?

Cohesion  represents  the  degree  to  which  task and social bonds exist among group members, as well as the strength of individuals’ attractions to the  task  and  social  activities  of  the  group.  This entry  briefly  highlights  the  history,  characteristics,  conceptualization,  measurement,  and  correlates  of  cohesion  within  sport  and  exercise environments. History Interest in and discussion surrounding

Depression and Anxiety in Dialysis Patients

This article delves into the intricate relationship between depression and anxiety in dialysis patients, offering an examination of the prevalence, contributing factors, and impact of these mental health challenges within the context of renal replacement therapy. The exploration of depression encompasses a detailed discussion on diagnostic criteria, prevalence rates, and multifaceted contributors such as chronic

Workaholism

Workaholism is a popular term used to describe individuals who are captivated by work. The term workaholic was first coined more than 30 years ago to refer to an individual whose increased need to work hinders one or more life functions. Over the years it has become a colloquial term used increasingly in the popular

Collective Efficacy

Albert  Bandura  defined  collective  efficacy  (CE) as a group’s shared belief in its conjoint capabilities to organize and execute the courses of action required  to  produce  given  levels  of  attainments, that  is,  situation-specific  confidence  in  a  group’s ability. A commonly used definition of CE in sport and exercise is a group’s (e.g., a sport team

Sexuality and Fertility Issues in Renal Disease

This article explores the intricate interplay between renal disease and sexuality, as well as the multifaceted challenges individuals face regarding fertility issues within this health context. The introduction provides a foundational understanding of renal disease, emphasizing the need to address associated sexuality and fertility concerns due to their pervasive impact on mental health. The first

Applicant Reactions

The term applicant reactions is used to refer to an applicant’s affect, attitudes, and cognitions toward a selection process. Applicant reaction models suggest that reactions are very complex and involve perceptions of multiple aspects of specific tests and the testing process in general. Stephen Gilliland was one of the first researchers to put forth a

Collectivism and Individualism

Clients in sport and exercise psychology contexts are from a diversity of cultural backgrounds. The terms individualism and collectivism have recently been  integrated  within  sport  psychology  as  elements  of  one  criterion  by  which  to  understand the  client’s  cultural  standpoint.  Individualism  has often  been  associated  with  mainstream  clients who are white and from the Western hemisphere.

Health Disparities and Racial Discrimination

The article explores the intricate relationship between health disparities and racial discrimination within the field of health psychology. The introduction delineates the significance of addressing health disparities and outlines the pervasive influence of racial discrimination in healthcare. The first section delves into the conceptual framework of health disparities, elucidating their measurement, and exploring multifaceted contributing

Banding

Banding refers to the procedure of grouping test scores into ranges and treating scores within a particular range as equivalent when making personnel decisions. After an organization collects test scores from candidates who applied for a job, a hiring decision must be made using these scores. There are a number of approaches for making these

Commitment in Sports

Sport  commitment  is  a  central  motivational  construct because it goes right to the heart of athletes’ persistent  pursuit  of  their  sport.  Simply  put,  it  is a  psychological  state  explaining  why  athletes  do what they do. There are two types of sport commitment:  enthusiastic  and  constrained.  Enthusiastic commitment  (EC)  is  the  psychological  construct representing the desire

Cultural Competence in Health Care

This article explores the vital concept of cultural competence in the realm of health care within the framework of health psychology. Commencing with a definition, the introduction elucidates the significance of cultural competence in fostering equitable and effective healthcare delivery. The ensuing sections delve into the foundational aspects of cultural competence, tracing its historical evolution

Career Development

Most people participate in some form of paid labor during their lifetime. Typically, they engage in a series of jobs. As these jobs become increasingly related to one another, a career unfolds. This process occurs throughout the life span. Several theories have been proposed to describe the process of career development. Three of the most

Competence Motivation Theory

Competence  motivation  theory  is  a  conceptual framework designed to explain individuals’ motivation  to  participate,  persist,  and  work  hard  in any  particular  achievement  context.  The  central thesis of the theory is that individuals are attracted to  participation  in  activities  at  which  they  feel competent or capable. The theory can be used by researchers and practitioners in

Racial Identity and Health Outcomes

This article explores the intricate relationship between racial identity and health outcomes within the realm of health psychology. Beginning with an elucidation of the conceptualization of racial identity, the discussion encompasses historical perspectives and theoretical frameworks, notably Cross’s Nigrescence Model, to elucidate the development of racial identity across the lifespan. The subsequent sections delve into

Careers

A career differs from a job in terms of the length, breadth, and depth of personal involvement. A career is a profession in which one makes progressive achievement, whereas a job is defined by specific tasks. Establishing a career serves many purposes, including providing sustainable income, expressing personal beliefs and values, and providing social connections.

Competition in Sports

Competition  is  often  described  as  a  contest,  or  a process  of  contesting,  between  two  or  more  parties (organisms, individuals, or groups) for a scarce resource  or  good.  The  scarcity  can  result  from nature  or  history,  such  as  competition  for  limited food, or it can be created artificially, such as the good of winning a game.

Ethnic Variations in Disease Prevalence

This article delves into the intricate realm of health psychology by examining ethnic variations in disease prevalence. Beginning with an overview of the epidemiological landscape, the discussion navigates through the genetic, socioeconomic, and cultural factors contributing to variations in disease prevalence across ethnic groups. Emphasizing the significance of health disparities within ethnic minority populations, the

Compensation

The simple act of receiving a paycheck for one’s job is the result of many complex processes involved in the art and science of compensation. Compensation systems are designed to comply with a large number of organizational objectives, including serving as an exchange for hourly labor, motivating behavior, and accomplishing social objectives such as covering

Concentration in Sport

In sport psychology, concentration refers to focusing  on  sensory  or  mental  events  coupled  with mental effort. It therefore relates primarily to the selective  attention  dimension  in  which  individuals are able to selectively process some sources of information while ignoring others. It has its roots in the oft-cited quote from William James’s 1890 book The Principles

Health Beliefs Across Different Cultures

This article delves into the intricate interplay between cultural backgrounds and health beliefs within the realm of health psychology. The introduction elucidates the pivotal role of health beliefs and their cultural underpinnings in shaping individuals’ perceptions of well-being. The first body section meticulously examines health beliefs in diverse cultures, exploring the ancient wisdom of Traditional

Credentialing

Credentialing is a process for granting a designation, such as a certificate or license, by measuring an individual’s competence in a specific knowledge, skill, or performance area. The purpose of credentialing is to assure the public that an individual meets the minimum requirements within an area of competence, typically an occupation or profession. There are

Concentration Skills

Several sources of evidence reveal that concentration, or the ability to focus on what is most important in any situation while ignoring distractions, is vital for success in sport. First, anecdotally, lapses in concentration can mean the difference between winning  and  losing  at  the  Olympics.  For  example,  at  the  2008  Games  in  Beijing,  rifle  shooter

Race and Mental Health Stigma

This article explores the intricate relationship between race and mental health stigma within the context of health psychology. The introduction delineates the definition and significance of mental health stigma, emphasizing the critical need to address its impact on diverse communities. The historical overview reveals the evolution of mental health stigma, underscoring racial disparities in its

Dictionary of Occupational Titles

The Dictionary of Occupational Titles, or DOT, is a comprehensive listing of job titles with accompanying job descriptions, available in a paper format, published by the U.S. Department of Labor. Since its inception in 1939, the DOT has served as an invaluable resource for human resource practitioners in developing job analyses and job descriptions. The

Conflict in Sports

In  1954,  Muzafer  Sherif,  O.  J.  Harvey,  B.  Jack White,  William  R.  Hood,  and  Carolyn  W.  Sherif undertook a project that allowed them to examine inter and  intragroup  relationships  in  a  naturalistic  setting.  This  classic  field-based  experimental study,  known  as  the  Robbers  Cave  Experiment because  of  its  location  (Robbers  Cave  State  Park in   Oklahoma),   involved  

Impact of Racism on Mental Health

This article explores the multifaceted impact of racism on mental health within the framework of health psychology. Beginning with an examination of the historical context, it delves into the persistent effects of racism on modern society, elucidating the psychological mechanisms involved, such as stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination, and microaggressions. The second section scrutinizes epidemiological evidence, highlighting

Dirty Work

Everett Hughes invoked the term dirty work in reference to jobs and tasks that are often seen as degrading, disgusting, or debasing. Dirty work is often seen as a necessary evil in society—someone needs to clean the streets, save lives in an emergency room, or guard inmates in a prison. Yet, although society acknowledges a

Cultural Tailoring of Health Interventions

This article explores the pivotal role of cultural tailoring in the realm of health psychology, emphasizing its significance in addressing the diverse needs of populations. Beginning with an overview of cultural diversity’s impact on health beliefs and behaviors, the article delves into theoretical frameworks supporting cultural tailoring, including the Health Belief Model and Social Cognitive

Conformity in Sports

Conformity refers to the process of matching one’s actions or beliefs with the behavior and norms of those around us. Research into the nature of this phenomenon was popularized by prominent social psychologists in the early to mid-20th century such as Muzafer Sherif and Solomon Asch. Today, there exists  a  well-established  literature  base  regarding the 

Drug and Alcohol Testing

Organizations use drug and alcohol testing to determine whether an employee (or prospective employee) is under the influence of alcohol or specific drugs. The drugs included in the test are illegal drugs such as cocaine, marijuana, PCP, and methamphetamines and commonly abused legal drugs such amphetamines, barbiturates, and opiates. Drug and alcohol tests are also

Ethnicity and Health Care Utilization

This article delves into the intricate relationship between ethnicity and health care utilization within the realm of health psychology. Beginning with an overview of the subject, the importance of studying ethnicity in health psychology is emphasized. The discussion is structured around three main sections, each exploring distinct factors that contribute to ethnic disparities in health

Sports Psychology Consultant

Sport  psychology  professionals  maintain  an  ethical  obligation  to  ensure  services  are  helping  clients (and conversely, not harming them), and thus allowing  clients  the  opportunity  to  provide  feedback is a key element of effective service provision. Components of Evaluation There  are  a  variety  of  subjective  (or  self-report) and  objective  measures  available  that  consultants can select to

Electronic Human Resources Management

Electronic human resources management (eHR) focuses on the use of technology to maintain employee records and enhance human resources (HR) processes, including job analysis, recruitment, selection, training, performance management, and compensation. There has been an increased use of eHR systems in recent years because they are thought to (a) streamline HR processes, (b) reduce cycle

Racial Disparities in Pain Management

This article delves into the intricate domain of racial disparities in pain management within the context of health psychology. Beginning with an exploration of the definition and significance of these disparities, the article scrutinizes the multifaceted factors contributing to unequal pain management experiences among diverse racial and ethnic groups. It thoroughly examines the influence of

Sports Consulting

Consulting may be described as a temporary relationship  that  is  developed  when  an  individual  or entity  seeks  information  or  advice.  Consultation may  occur  at  the  individual,  group,  or  organizational  level.  It  is  intended  to  help  the  designated client  function  more  effectively  and  efficiently within a specific setting. Although consultation is a helping relationship, it differs

Employee Selection

Employee selection is the process employers use to determine which candidates to choose for particular jobs or roles within the organization. (Some organizations select for a particular job, e.g., customer service representative, whereas others select for a role, e.g., management.) Often, employee selection connotes preemployment selection—that is, determining which external applicants to hire. However, the

What is Control Theory?

Concepts  from  control  theory  date  back  to  the early  1900s;  however,  the  origination  of  control  theory  is  usually  ascribed  to  the  publication  of  Norbert  Wiener’s  1948  acclaimed  work, Cybernetics:  Control  and  Communication  in  the Animal and the Machine. To describe control theory simply, one could generalize that it is premised in  understanding  and  describing  self-regulating

Executive Selection

Executive selection represents an important means of gaining competitive advantage for today’s organizations. However, such selection has not traditionally used the rich history of conceptual and empirical research on personnel selection that exists within the domain of industrial and organizational psychology. The high failure rate of today’s executives points to the need for more effective

Expatriates

Expatriates are employees who go overseas to accomplish a job-related goal. To remain competitive in the world marketplace or to obtain new marketing opportunities, multinational companies (MNCs) are sending increasing numbers of expatriates on international assignments. In fact, recent research estimates that more than 250,000 Americans currently are serving as expatriates on international assignments. This

Coping with Disability: A Psychological Approach

This article in the field of health psychology explores the psychological dimensions of coping with disability. The introduction delineates the concept of disability in health psychology, emphasizing the crucial role of coping strategies in mitigating its impact on individuals. The main body of the article delves into the psychological intricacies of disability, unraveling emotional reactions

Emotional Stress and Coronary Heart Disease

This health psychology article explores the relationship between emotional stress and Coronary Heart Disease (CHD). The introduction sets the stage by briefly introducing CHD and underscoring the pivotal role of emotional stress in health. The first section elucidates the multifaceted nature of emotional stress, delineating its various types and their physiological underpinnings. The subsequent section

Behavioral Cardiology: Psychological Aspects of Heart Disease

This article explores the intersection of psychology and cardiovascular health within the field of behavioral cardiology. Beginning with an introduction delineating the significance of understanding psychological aspects in heart disease, the article is structured into three interconnected sections. The first section delves into psychosocial risk factors, examining the intricate relationship between stress, depression, anxiety, and

Impact of Depression on Coronary Heart Disease

This article explores the intricate relationship between depression and coronary heart disease (CHD) within the framework of health psychology. The introduction delineates CHD and depression individually, emphasizing the imperative to understand their interconnectedness. The body of the article investigates biological mechanisms, elucidating shared risk factors and inflammatory pathways that underscore the convergence of these conditions.

Personality Traits and Risk for Heart Disease

This article explores the intricate relationship between personality traits and the risk for heart disease within the realm of health psychology. The introduction elucidates the significance of understanding personality in the context of health and outlines the purpose of the article. The body of the article is divided into three sections, each delving into specific

Psychosocial Interventions for Cardiac Patients

This article explores the pivotal role of psychosocial interventions in enhancing the well-being and outcomes of cardiac patients within the realm of health psychology. The introduction provides context by highlighting the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and underscores the significance of addressing psychosocial factors in cardiac care. The subsequent section delves into the intricate relationship between

Conferences in Counseling

Conferences in the field of counseling offer students, practitioners, researchers, and scholars opportunities to gather, interact, and learn within a larger and often diverse environment. Individuals with common interests have formed societies and convened in groups for discussion and debate since the time of Socrates. In the field of psychology, the first formal meeting of

Cardiac Psychology: Managing Fear and Anxiety

This article delves into the realm of cardiac psychology, focusing on the imperative task of managing fear and anxiety in individuals grappling with cardiovascular diseases. Beginning with an exploration of the intricate relationship between psychological factors and cardiac health, the article elucidates the nuanced understanding of fear and anxiety in the context of cardiovascular conditions.

Consultation

The defining moment for most products that have reached an iconic status is the generic application of the product’s name, such as the use of “Kleenex” to indicate any brand of tissue. Similarly, the practice of consulting has reached a comparable level of renown and one is able to find it in almost every aspect

Recovery and Adjustment Post-Heart Attack

This article in the field of health psychology explores the multifaceted dimensions of recovery and adjustment post-heart attack. Beginning with an introduction to the prevalence and impact of heart attacks, the article elucidates the imperative role of health psychology in understanding and addressing the challenges individuals face in the aftermath of such cardiovascular events. The

Continuing Education

Continuing education for individuals in the counseling professions is often required for maintenance of licensure or certification status. Agencies that offer licensing or certification for counselors include state organizations, professional associations, and specialty or national affiliations. The term counselors applies to persons who are licensed or have received specialized training in mental health fields such

Lifestyle Interventions for Heart Disease Prevention

This article explores the pivotal role of lifestyle interventions in the prevention of heart disease, a pervasive and detrimental health condition. Commencing with an elucidation of heart disease’s multifaceted nature, encompassing its definitions, types, prevalence, and associated risk factors, the introduction establishes the imperative of prevention in ameliorating its substantial public health impact. The ensuing

Conferences in Counseling Psychology

Counseling psychology was initially recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA) as a distinct discipline of the Division of Counseling Psychology in 1944 (known initially as the Division of Personnel Psychologists). Division 17, now known as the Society of Counseling Psychology (SCP), has a membership of over 2500 psychologists. There have been four major conferences

The Influence of Social Support on Heart Health

This article explores the intricate relationship between social support and heart health within the realm of health psychology. Beginning with a foundational overview of heart health’s significance, the study delves into the multifaceted mechanisms of social support, examining emotional, instrumental, and informational dimensions. The subsequent section elucidates the psychological pathways through which social support influences

Credentialing Individuals

The credentials and credentialing processes described in this entry are recognitions that a practitioner voluntarily seeks. They provide indications of advanced training and skill as well as evidence that the practitioner has passed certain examinations. All of the credentials described are obtained after a degree has been completed and, in many instances, after a license

Psychological Predictors of Cardiac Rehabilitation Success

This article explores the crucial role of psychological factors in predicting success in cardiac rehabilitation programs. The introduction highlights the significance of understanding the interplay between psychological elements and cardiovascular health, setting the stage for an in-depth examination. The first section delves into the impact of patient motivation, self-efficacy, and coping mechanisms on adherence to

Department of Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates the largest integrated healthcare delivery system in the United States. Counseling has had an important and increasingly prominent role in the VA healthcare system since its establishment over 60 years ago. Administered by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), the VA healthcare delivery system contains the nation’s largest mental

Caring for a Relative with Dementia

This article delves into the psychological landscape of individuals undertaking the responsibility of caring for a relative with dementia. Commencing with an exploration of dementia’s prevalence and impact on families, the introduction underscores the significance of understanding and addressing the psychological ramifications for caregivers. The first section scrutinizes the cognitive and emotional toll on caregivers

Distance Education/Dispersed Learning

In the current digital age, information is available in greater volumes and with faster access than in any prior time in history. Harnessing this information effectively can be a challenge and an opportunity for counseling educators and students. Technological innovations are changing the educational environment and allowing for a wide array of flexible education opportunities.

Behavioral Management in Dementia Care

This article explores the pivotal role of behavioral management in dementia care within the framework of health psychology. Beginning with an introduction to dementia and its profound impact, the article delineates the complex behavioral changes associated with the condition, emphasizing the challenges faced by caregivers. Theoretical foundations, such as person-centered care and behavioral interventions, form

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