Sports Psychology for Adolescents

Ana Yang

ABSTRACT

Sports psychology is an effective tool for improving athletic performance. However, many coaches in adolescent sports practices often do not implement these recommendations. Sports psychology is the study of how psychological factors influence motor performance. Intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors can be influenced by an athlete’s anxiety management and their ability to implement tools such as routines, to calm their unease. Additionally, an athlete’s social and familial culture may play a big role in their success. Research suggests that coaches should be sensitive to a player's motivational foundation and cultural framework. This paper emphasizes the importance of sports psychology by exploring its impact on various areas of an athlete’s life. It will provide suggestions for incorporating impactful practices in sports psychology to foster a supportive environment for athletes. The aim of this paper is that integration of sports psychology into athletic training programs can lead to improved performance. By focusing on motivation, anxiety management, pre-performance routines, and cultural sensitivity, sports psychologists can create a development framework for athletes. Moving forward, raising awareness about the benefits of sports psychology and developing programs that incorporate these principles into youth sports is essential. This approach will not only enhance athletic performance but also contribute to the overall personal growth and mental well-being of athletes.

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