module specification

This module elaborates on the key theories in sport psychology, covering a wide range of sport psychology topics and the mental skills used within those topics. The module aims to provide students with an understanding of key psychological theories which underpin sporting performance and participation itself. Students will focus initially on the psychological factors which influence an individual’s sporting behaviour and later develop an understanding of group dynamics in sport.

The module encourages an appreciation of how to work effectively in a team setting and also aims to develop students’ communication and literacy skills to allow them the ability to write a scientific piece of work with confidence. Most mental skills developed in sport psychology are directly transferable therefore students are given qualities necessary to advance in many other areas of life.

Assessment: Essay (001) (30%) + Case Study and Viva (002) (30%) +
Group presentation (003) (40%)

Personality LO1, LO2, LO5
Anxiety, Arousal and Stress LO1, LO2, LO5
Coping mechanisms LO1, LO2, LO5
Aggression in sport LO1, LO2, LO5
Confidence LO1, LO2, LO5
Motivation LO1, LO2, LO5
Imagery LO1, LO2, LO5 
Exercise and wellbeing LO1, LO2, LO5
Group dynamics LO1, LO3, LO4, LO5
Social facilitation LO1, LO3, LO4, LO5
Teamwork LO1, LO3, LO4, LO5
Leadership LO1, LO3, LO4, LO5
Communication LO1, LO3, LO4, LO5

The basic structure to teaching and learning will involve a theory driven lecture supported by an interactive practical seminar. Lectures will provide the essential theoretical base, whereas seminars offer students the opportunity to discuss this knowledge and its relevance to practice. Reflective practice is a continuous element as an important employability strand and driving force in personal development.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate factual knowledge and conceptual understanding of sport psychology
2. Relate psychological theory to individual sporting performance
3. Relate psychological theory to group processes and performance
4. Work competently as a member of a group
5. Effectively apply the principles of scientific writing

Assessments have been designed to provide students with a diverse range of tasks that maintain interest and encourage engagement. This breadth also ensures the development of a greater number of key skills pertinent to employability.

Textbooks:

Core texts:
Weinberg, R.S. and Gould, D. (2014) Foundations of sport and exercise psychology. 6th ed. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Williams, J.M. (2006) Applied sport psychology: personal growth to peak performance 5th ed. McGraw-Hill, New York.

Other texts:

Brady, A. and Glenville-Cleave, B. (2017)  Positive psychology in sport and physical activity: an introduction,  Routledge

Cox, R.H. (2001) Sport psychology: Concepts and applications, 7th ed.  McGraw-Hill Education: Europe

Gill, D. and Williams, L. (2008) Psychological dynamics of Sport and Exercise. Human Kinetics

Jowett, S. and Lavallee, D. (2007) Social psychology in sport. Human Kinetics

Thatcher, J., Day, M. and Rahman, R. (2011) Sport and exercise psychology. Learning MattersLtd.

Weinberg, R.S. and Gould, D. (2011) Foundations of sport and exercise psychology. 5th ed. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Journals:  The Sport Psychologist
                 International Journal of Sport Psychology
                 Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology
                 Journal of Sports Sciences