Pre-competition anxiety in young athletes
A case study from the perspective of sports and social psychology.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5016/bjsphd.v2i1.20130Keywords:
Pre-competitive anxiety; Adolescent athletes; Psychology.Abstract
One of the most analyzed psychological phenomena in sports, particularly among young athletes, is pre-competitive anxiety, due to its direct connection with performance, motivation, and emotional well-being. This article presents a case study conducted over a semester with female Artistic Gymnastics and Handball teams, examining expressions of pre-competitive anxiety, related elements, and psychological interventions performed. The research indicates that psychoeducational interventions, strengthening group identity, and cognitive-behavioral techniques resulted in more effective emotional regulation, greater cohesion, and improved emotional awareness among the athletes. The importance of constant and integrated psychological intervention in the youth sports context is discussed.
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