Introduction to Sports Psychology

This module aims to introduce students to the area of sport and exercise psychology and examines a selected range of psychological factors that influence the coaching process. It specifically addresses issues such as coaching / leadership styles, paediatric sports psychology, competitive performance and mental aspects as they relate to exercise, health and injury. This module is intended to provide a theoretical underpinning of Sport and Exercise Psychology and will draw upon contemporary research in considering impact on successful coaching and performance.

1. Understand key psychological theories and models from the area of sport and exercise psychology.

2. Appraise and challenge current knowledge relating to the role of sport psychology in the coaching context.

3. Analyse and interpret sport psychology literature in order to construct informed and well-supported arguments.

4. Describe a range of theoretical perspectives which attempt to explain behaviour.