module specification

ST5052 - Psychological Factors in Sport: Individual Differences (2023/24)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2023/24
Module title Psychological Factors in Sport: Individual Differences
Module level Intermediate (05)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Human Sciences
Total study hours 150
 
53 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
3 hours Assessment Preparation / Delivery
94 hours Guided independent study
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 50%   Essay (2000 words)
Practical Examination 50%   Viva exam (15 minute) based on initial written case study analysis (500 words)
Running in 2023/24

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
No instances running in the year

Module summary

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. Psychological issues relating to individual behaviour patterns are favoured are studied in detail. The impact of psychological factors on both participation and performance are studied.

The module aims to provide students with an understanding of key psychological theories which underpin sporting performance and participation itself. Students will focus on the psychological factors which influence an individual’s sporting behaviour, whether it be in competition, training or general participation. The module 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) (50%) + Case Study and Viva (002) (50%)

Prior learning requirements

 

 

Syllabus

• Personality LO1, LO2, LO3
• Anxiety, Arousal and Stress LO1, LO2, LO3
• Coping mechanisms LO1, LO2, LO3
• Aggression in sport LO1, LO2, LO3
• Confidence LO1, LO2, LO3
• Motivation LO1, LO2, LO3
• Imagery LO1, LO2, LO3
• Exercise and wellbeing LO1, LO2, LO3

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

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.

Learning outcomes

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. Effectively apply the principles of scientific writing

Assessment strategy

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. The even dispersion of assessments across the year ensures a manageable workload.

Bibliography

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