sports psychology essay topics

50 Best Sports Psychology Research Topics

When it comes to selecting sports psychology research topics, it might seem like a challenging task in the eyes of many students. But once you choose a topic from our list and master the tricks of writing a professional research paper, you present yourself as an expert researcher in no time.

What makes a sports psychologist proficient? Sports psychology requires a proficient application of psychological knowledge and skills to address athletes’ most favorable performance and well-being. When studying psychology, your lecturers require you to be skilled and creative in writing and presenting research findings.

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Originality is essential in research writing. That is why we formulate unique ideas and identify shallowly researched topics for you to expound on them.

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At HelpForHomework, we generate sports psychology topics that are interesting to write and appealing to your audience. If you are looking for fascinating ideas, check out the list below.

Expert Tip: After finding relevant sports psychology research topics, ensure you confirm and ask for guidance from your professor at an early stage. Also, it would be helpful if you contact our support department after selecting a topic.

Best Sports Psychology Topics

Are you looking for the best sports psychology research topics? We have some recommendations for you.

Historical and modern perspective of sports psychology
How to utilize and improve sports psychology for better customer experience in a sports merchandise store
Importance of employing sports psychologists in elite sports
Role of sports psychology and nutrition in musculoskeletal injuries in professional rugby
Scientific application in sports psychology in sports
Sports psychology and health: Strategies for creating a healthy and high-performance workplace
Sports psychology in your local football or soccer league
Sports psychology perspective on the importance of motivation in increases success
Sports psychology: An essential aspect for athletes success
Sports psychology: how to deal with fatigue

Excellent Sports Psychology Research Topics

Finding excellent sports psychology research topics can be a hassle. That is why we have generated top ideas to help you in your next project.

Application of Artificial Intelligence in sports psychology
Application of psychophysiology in sports psychology
Personality dimensions in sports psychology
Psychological factors affecting physical performance and sports
Role of sports psychology in individual development in sports
Sports psychology in police training: Building understanding across all police disciplines
Sports psychology in your country: Review of sports psychology journals
Sports psychology perspective of anxiety
Sports psychology perspective of electronic sports
The role of sports psychology in controlling obesity

Interesting Sports Psychology Research Topics

If you are looking for exciting sports psychology research topics, you are on the right platform. Check them out and contact the support for more guidance.

Analysis and visualization of anxiety in final football matches
Case study: Relationship between competitive anxiety and mental toughness
Effects of temperament and anxiety on sports performance
How do anxiety and ego depletion affect sports performance?
Impact of spectator behavior on individual player’s psychology
Impact of spectator behavior on team performance
Managing anxiety levels in sports performance
Sports psychology perspective: Measuring anxiety in sports
Understanding fear and anxiety management in extreme sports
Use of music in mental training

Expert Sports Psychology Research Topics

When you select expert-generated sports psychology research topics, you will for sure impress your audience. We hope you find the best topic from the list below:

Challenges of gender studies in sport psychology
Compare and contrast anxiety and self-confidence between a team and individual sports at your college
Controlling fans aggression
Dealing with negative stereotypes in sports: Women soccer
Mental toughness and sports competition anxiety for male and female MMA fighters
Psychological and physiological impacts of doping in sports
Relationship between arousal-anxiety and sports behavior
Sports psychology: Children anxiety in sports
Sports psychology: Effects of racial abuse on athletes
Volitional regulation and motivation of young boxers

Exciting Sports Psychology Research Topics

Although looking for sports psychology topics can be mind-boggling, we have cut the hassle and generated fascinating topics for you.

Application of sports psychology in goal setting
Effectiveness of psychological intervention during a long-term sports injury rehabilitation
Literature review: Impacts of physical activity in the treatment of depression
Neuropsychology of sports rehabilitation
Organizations support mechanisms for soccer players in major leagues. How does league organization affect performance?
Social factors affecting sports performance in your country
Sports psychology: Anxiety and emotions of women in sports
Systematic review: How do skiers manage stress and anxiety before a competition?
The role of imagery in sports performance
Theoretical aspects of motivation in sports rehabilitation

Final Verdict

Have you found top-quality sports psychology research topics? If not, contact our support team and let us share other ideas. You can be sure we will offer you reliable psychology research writing services. So bring all the questions and let us help you in the best way as we always do. Press the contact button and consult us. also check out Neuropsychology Research topics.

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Sports psychology research paper topics, dr. wilson mn.

August 3, 2022
Essay Topics and Ideas , Samples

The article provides a list of over 40 best and interesting Sports Psychology Research Paper Topics . Also provides a guide on factors to consider when selecting a Sports Psychology Research Paper Topics .

Psychology is an interdisciplinary field that deals with a wide range of issues and concerns. If you want to create a top-notch psychology research paper, you need to pick a topic that interests you.

Let’s start with a few pointers to keep in mind before diving into the rest of the material.

The first stage of a successful study is to come up with a research topic. There are many psychology-related research subjects to choose from, but narrowing them down can be time-consuming.

As soon as you understand the subject, everything else will fall into place.

If you’re going to do research, you’d be wise to begin planning months in advance. There is plenty of time to review and narrow down your topical ideas this way.

You can also check out 140+ Good Argumentative Essay Topics Psychology

What You'll Learn

Factors to Consider When Choosing Psychology Research Paper Topics

Scope . A good psychology research topic would have a reasonable and balanced scope.

If your topic is too broad, your ideas will be all over the place. Again, a narrow topic will limit your psychological research .

Revolving around just a few ideas robs your study of its value.

Relevance . A psychology paper is meant to educate and solve societal problems. It is advisable to go for a topic that touches on trending social issues.

This way, your study will spark curiosity in your audience and cause them to follow through.

Personal interests and values. Psychology is broad and touches on real-life issues.

For you to thrive in psychological research, choose a topic that is of interest to you.

Also, consider an area of study that doesn’t contradict your values so that you can handle it freely.

Sports Psychology Research Ideas for College Students
What impact does positive reinforcement over interval training techniques in improving competitive performance in professional matches?
Why do certain sports like soccer, football, and rugby have more athletes that have or will be accused of a violent crime?
Are certain pain medicines used to treat professional athletes negatively impacting their perception of the sports in which they play?
How do cheerleader and band support the psychology of a high school or college-level student-athlete? Is this true across all sports?
Does a sound physical and mental training program reduce the tendency for athletes to reduce the desire to be aggressive or violent?
Does a sound physical and mental training program reduce the tendencies for athletes to reduce the desire to aggressive or violent?

Sports Psychology Research Ideas for Grad Students

What is the relationship between the speed and accuracy with which an athlete visually respond to stimuli and the ability to react with movement?
What mental effects do sport nutrition supplements in the way an athlete prepares for contest? Do supplements take on a “placebo effect”?
Are there psychological differences when participating in international sporting events versus domestic sporting events?
What psychological impact does a coach have on a team’s success? Is a well-known coach more likely to have a positive or negative impact? How do players react to each kind of coach?
Are young coaches feeling pressure to win within a certain timeline and does this affect how players perform? Do they put themselves at risk of injury by feeling pressured?
How can sports psychology help in the process of building team chemistry and support among teammates working towards a common goal?
How do athletes manage their emotions when they participate regularly in sports? What happens when the emotions are negatively charged (i.e., a boxer)?
How has sports psychology evolved in the last twenty years? What do you see in the way it will continue to develop and how it will affect the way athletes, coaches, etc., approach sports?
What mental effects do sports nutrition supplements on the way an athlete prepares for the contest? Do supplements take on a “placebo effect”?
What effects do team chants before games have on team performance? What do the numbers suggest for individual players and their level of chant participation?
Do sports awards and trophies assist in boosting athletes’ self-esteem and motivation? Have awards become meaningless in athletics’ opinions?
What impact does positive reinforcement over intervals training techniques in improving competitive performance in professional matches?
How does cheerleader and band support to the psychology of a high school or college-level student-athlete? Is this true across all sports?
Future trends in sport psychology in light of increased evidence showing head trauma in sports like football and rugby. Will these sports be made safer or will the rules remain the same as long as athletes continue to play and people continue to watch?
Understanding how team sport dynamics have changed in the last twenty years and what can be expected in the future. The rise of the superstar has changed the ways teams are put together, and changed the nature of how the locker room dynamics are.
Ways to promote increased physical activities in lower socio-economic areas where good health in the greater population is low.
Discuss the role of the Olympics upon nations where sport activity is virtually non-existent because of underfunding. Is it a good thing for these nations to invest in sports in the years after the Olympic Games?
Using psychological tests to determine an athlete’s ability to cope with the move from collegiate to professional sports. Are these tests accurate? Could team owners and psychologists have guessed from these results if athletes were going to have drug or problems with violence?

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You can also check out Best Examples of Self-fulfilling Prophecies

Sports Psychology Research Topics on Behaviour

How to the behavior of a player reveals his psychology on the ground?
How to keep yourself calm and composed in stressful situations as well?
What are the results of having good behavior in the sports field for players?
Drawbacks of getting out of control on the sports field for a sportsman.
The latest research on behavioral psychology of sportsmen.

Sports Research Topics about Athlete Performance

What should be done to enhance performance on the field?
Role of practice in sports for gaining success.
What are the main components that enhance the performance of a player in Sports?
Which is the largest disgrace in reducing the performance of the player?
How a bad coach can decrease the overall output of a sports team.
The way through which unity enhances performance.

You can also check out Psychology Essay Example

Related FAQs

1. what is sports psychology and why study it.

Sports psychology has become one of the most popular areas of study within the larger discipline of psychology. It’s a study of how sports, exercise, physical activity and athletic performance are all influenced by elements of psychology.

2. What is sport psychology?

Sport psychology is an interdisciplinary science that draws on knowledge from many related fields including biomechanics, physiology, kinesiology and psychology. It involves the study of how psychological factors affect performance and how participation in sport and exercise affect psychological and physical factors.

3. Which researchers have had a positive influence on sport psychology?

Franklin M. Henry was another researcher that had a positive influence on sport psychology. In 1938, he began to study how different factors in sport psychology can affect athlete’s motor skills.

4. What does a sports psychologist do?

Sports psychologists help athletes maintain high levels of performance by prioritizing mental fitness. They also look at sports participation in relation to skills like teamwork and emotional regulation. The field of applied sports psychology emerged in the early 20th century.

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Peer-reviewed

Research Article

Sport psychology and performance meta-analyses: A systematic review of the literature

Roles Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal analysis, Methodology, Project administration, Supervision, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing

* E-mail: [email protected]

Affiliations Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America, Education Academy, Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania

Roles Data curation, Methodology, Writing – original draft

Affiliation Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America

Roles Data curation, Methodology

Roles Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing

Affiliation Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Honors College, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America

Roles Data curation, Methodology, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing

Affiliation Faculty of Education, Health and Well-Being, University of Wolverhampton, Walsall, West Midlands, United Kingdom

Roles Data curation, Formal analysis, Methodology, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing

Affiliation Division of Research & Innovation, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia

Marc Lochbaum,
Elisabeth Stoner,
Tristen Hefner,
Sydney Cooper,
Andrew M. Lane,
Peter C. Terry

Published: February 16, 2022
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263408
Peer Review
Reader Comments

Sport psychology as an academic pursuit is nearly two centuries old. An enduring goal since inception has been to understand how psychological techniques can improve athletic performance. Although much evidence exists in the form of meta-analytic reviews related to sport psychology and performance, a systematic review of these meta-analyses is absent from the literature. We aimed to synthesize the extant literature to gain insights into the overall impact of sport psychology on athletic performance. Guided by the PRISMA statement for systematic reviews, we reviewed relevant articles identified via the EBSCOhost interface. Thirty meta-analyses published between 1983 and 2021 met the inclusion criteria, covering 16 distinct sport psychology constructs. Overall, sport psychology interventions/variables hypothesized to enhance performance (e.g., cohesion, confidence, mindfulness) were shown to have a moderate beneficial effect ( d = 0.51), whereas variables hypothesized to be detrimental to performance (e.g., cognitive anxiety, depression, ego climate) had a small negative effect ( d = -0.21). The quality rating of meta-analyses did not significantly moderate the magnitude of observed effects, nor did the research design (i.e., intervention vs. correlation) of the primary studies included in the meta-analyses. Our review strengthens the evidence base for sport psychology techniques and may be of great practical value to practitioners. We provide recommendations for future research in the area.

Citation: Lochbaum M, Stoner E, Hefner T, Cooper S, Lane AM, Terry PC (2022) Sport psychology and performance meta-analyses: A systematic review of the literature. PLoS ONE 17(2): e0263408. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263408

Editor: Claudio Imperatori, European University of Rome, ITALY

Received: September 28, 2021; Accepted: January 18, 2022; Published: February 16, 2022

Copyright: © 2022 Lochbaum et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

Data Availability: All relevant data are within the paper.

Funding: The author(s) received no specific funding for this work.

Competing interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Introduction

Sport performance matters. Verifying its global importance requires no more than opening a newspaper to the sports section, browsing the internet, looking at social media outlets, or scanning abundant sources of sport information. Sport psychology is an important avenue through which to better understand and improve sport performance. To date, a systematic review of published sport psychology and performance meta-analyses is absent from the literature. Given the undeniable importance of sport, the history of sport psychology in academics since 1830, and the global rise of sport psychology journals and organizations, a comprehensive systematic review of the meta-analytic literature seems overdue. Thus, we aimed to consolidate the existing literature and provide recommendations for future research.

The development of sport psychology

The history of sport psychology dates back nearly 200 years. Terry [ 1 ] cites Carl Friedrich Koch’s (1830) publication titled [in translation] Calisthenics from the Viewpoint of Dietetics and Psychology [ 2 ] as perhaps the earliest publication in the field, and multiple commentators have noted that sport psychology experiments occurred in the world’s first psychology laboratory, established by Wilhelm Wundt at the University of Leipzig in 1879 [ 1 , 3 ]. Konrad Rieger’s research on hypnosis and muscular endurance, published in 1884 [ 4 ] and Angelo Mosso’s investigations of the effects of mental fatigue on physical performance, published in 1891 [ 5 ] were other early landmarks in the development of applied sport psychology research. Following the efforts of Koch, Wundt, Rieger, and Mosso, sport psychology works appeared with increasing regularity, including Philippe Tissié’s publications in 1894 [ 6 , 7 ] on psychology and physical training, and Pierre de Coubertin’s first use of the term sport psychology in his La Psychologie du Sport paper in 1900 [ 8 ]. In short, the history of sport psychology and performance research began as early as 1830 and picked up pace in the latter part of the 19 th century. Early pioneers, who helped shape sport psychology include Wundt, recognized as the “father of experimental psychology”, Tissié, the founder of French physical education and Legion of Honor awardee in 1932, and de Coubertin who became the father of the modern Olympic movement and founder of the International Olympic Committee.

Sport psychology flourished in the early 20 th century [see 1, 3 for extensive historic details]. For instance, independent laboratories emerged in Berlin, Germany, established by Carl Diem in 1920; in St. Petersburg and Moscow, Russia, established respectively by Avksenty Puni and Piotr Roudik in 1925; and in Champaign, Illinois USA, established by Coleman Griffith, also in 1925. The period from 1950–1980 saw rapid strides in sport psychology, with Franklin Henry establishing this field of study as independent of physical education in the landscape of American and eventually global sport science and kinesiology graduate programs [ 1 ]. In addition, of great importance in the 1960s, three international sport psychology organizations were established: namely, the International Society for Sport Psychology (1965), the North American Society for the Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity (1966), and the European Federation of Sport Psychology (1969). Since that time, the Association of Applied Sport Psychology (1986), the South American Society for Sport Psychology (1986), and the Asian-South Pacific Association of Sport Psychology (1989) have also been established.

The global growth in academic sport psychology has seen a large number of specialist publications launched, including the following journals: International Journal of Sport Psychology (1970), Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology (1979), The Sport Psychologist (1987), Journal of Applied Sport Psychology (1989), Psychology of Sport and Exercise (2000), International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology (2003), Journal of Clinical Sport Psychology (2007), International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology (2008), Journal of Sport Psychology in Action (2010), Sport , Exercise , and Performance Psychology (2014), and the Asian Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology (2021).

In turn, the growth in journal outlets has seen sport psychology publications burgeon. Indicative of the scale of the contemporary literature on sport psychology, searches completed in May 2021 within the Web of Science Core Collection, identified 1,415 publications on goal setting and sport since 1985; 5,303 publications on confidence and sport since 1961; and 3,421 publications on anxiety and sport since 1980. In addition to academic journals, several comprehensive edited textbooks have been produced detailing sport psychology developments across the world, such as Hanrahan and Andersen’s (2010) Handbook of Applied Sport Psychology [ 9 ], Schinke, McGannon, and Smith’s (2016) International Handbook of Sport Psychology [ 10 ], and Bertollo, Filho, and Terry’s (2021) Advancements in Mental Skills Training [ 11 ] to name just a few. In short, sport psychology is global in both academic study and professional practice.

Meta-analysis in sport psychology

Several meta-analysis guides, computer programs, and sport psychology domain-specific primers have been popularized in the social sciences [ 12 , 13 ]. Sport psychology academics have conducted quantitative reviews on much studied constructs since the 1980s, with the first two appearing in 1983 in the form of Feltz and Landers’ meta-analysis on mental practice [ 14 ], which included 98 articles dating from 1934, and Bond and Titus’ cross-disciplinary meta-analysis on social facilitation [ 15 ], which summarized 241 studies including Triplett’s (1898) often-cited study of social facilitation in cycling [ 16 ]. Although much meta-analytic evidence exists for various constructs in sport and exercise psychology [ 12 ] including several related to performance [ 17 ], the evidence is inconsistent. For example, two meta-analyses, both ostensibly summarizing evidence of the benefits to performance of task cohesion [ 18 , 19 ], produced very different mean effects ( d = .24 vs d = 1.00) indicating that the true benefit lies somewhere in a wide range from small to large. Thus, the lack of a reliable evidence base for the use of sport psychology techniques represents a significant gap in the knowledge base for practitioners and researchers alike. A comprehensive systematic review of all published meta-analyses in the field of sport psychology has yet to be published.

Purpose and aim

We consider this review to be both necessary and long overdue for the following reasons: (a) the extensive history of sport psychology and performance research; (b) the prior publication of many meta-analyses summarizing various aspects of sport psychology research in a piecemeal fashion [ 12 , 17 ] but not its totality; and (c) the importance of better understanding and hopefully improving sport performance via the use of interventions based on solid evidence of their efficacy. Hence, we aimed to collate and evaluate this literature in a systematic way to gain improved understanding of the impact of sport psychology variables on sport performance by construct, research design, and meta-analysis quality, to enhance practical knowledge of sport psychology techniques and identify future lines of research inquiry. By systematically reviewing all identifiable meta-analytic reviews linking sport psychology techniques with sport performance, we aimed to evaluate the strength of the evidence base underpinning sport psychology interventions.

Materials and methods

This systematic review of meta-analyses followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines [ 20 ]. We did not register our systematic review protocol in a database. However, we specified our search strategy, inclusion criteria, data extraction, and data analyses in advance of writing our manuscript. All details of our work are available from the lead author. Concerning ethics, this systematic review received a waiver from Texas Tech University Human Subject Review Board as it concerned archival data (i.e., published meta-analyses).

Eligibility criteria

Published meta-analyses were retained for extensive examination if they met the following inclusion criteria: (a) included meta-analytic data such as mean group, between or within-group differences or correlates; (b) published prior to January 31, 2021; (c) published in a peer-reviewed journal; (d) investigated a recognized sport psychology construct; and (e) meta-analyzed data concerned with sport performance. There was no language of publication restriction. To align with our systematic review objectives, we gave much consideration to study participants and performance outcomes. Across multiple checks, all authors confirmed study eligibility. Three authors (ML, AL, and PT) completed the final inclusion assessments.

Information sources

Authors searched electronic databases, personal meta-analysis history, and checked with personal research contacts. Electronic database searches occurred in EBSCOhost with the following individual databases selected: APA PsycINFO, ERIC, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, and SPORTDiscus. An initial search concluded October 1, 2020. ML, AL, and PT rechecked the identified studies during the February–March, 2021 period, which resulted in the identification of two additional meta-analyses [ 21 , 22 ].

Search protocol

ML and ES initially conducted independent database searches. For the first search, ML used the following search terms: sport psychology with meta-analysis or quantitative review and sport and performance or sport* performance. For the second search, ES utilized a sport psychology textbook and used the chapter title terms (e.g., goal setting). In EBSCOhost, both searches used the advanced search option that provided three separate boxes for search terms such as box 1 (sport psychology), box 2 (meta-analysis), and box 3 (performance). Specific details of our search strategy were:

Search by ML:

sport psychology, meta-analysis, sport and performance
sport psychology, meta-analysis or quantitative review, sport* performance
sport psychology, quantitative review, sport and performance
sport psychology, quantitative review, sport* performance

Search by ES:

mental practice or mental imagery or mental rehearsal and sports performance and meta-analysis
goal setting and sports performance and meta-analysis
anxiety and stress and sports performance and meta-analysis
competition and sports performance and meta-analysis
diversity and sports performance and meta-analysis
cohesion and sports performance and meta-analysis
imagery and sports performance and meta-analysis
self-confidence and sports performance and meta-analysis
concentration and sports performance and meta-analysis
athletic injuries and sports performance and meta-analysis
overtraining and sports performance and meta-analysis
children and sports performance and meta-analysis

The following specific search of the EBSCOhost with SPORTDiscus, APA PsycINFO, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, and ERIC databases, returned six results from 2002–2020, of which three were included [ 18 , 19 , 23 ] and three were excluded because they were not meta-analyses.

Box 1 cohesion
Box 2 sports performance
Box 3 meta-analysis

Study selection

As detailed in the PRISMA flow chart ( Fig 1 ) and the specified inclusion criteria, a thorough study selection process was used. As mentioned in the search protocol, two authors (ML and ES) engaged independently with two separate searches and then worked together to verify the selected studies. Next, AL and PT examined the selected study list for accuracy. ML, AL, and PT, whilst rating the quality of included meta-analyses, also re-examined all selected studies to verify that each met the predetermined study inclusion criteria. Throughout the study selection process, disagreements were resolved through discussion until consensus was reached.

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https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263408.g001

Data extraction process

Initially, ML, TH, and ES extracted data items 1, 2, 3 and 8 (see Data items). Subsequently, ML, AL, and PT extracted the remaining data (items 4–7, 9, 10). Checks occurred during the extraction process for potential discrepancies (e.g., checking the number of primary studies in a meta-analysis). It was unnecessary to contact any meta-analysis authors for missing information or clarification during the data extraction process because all studies reported the required information. Across the search for meta-analyses, all identified studies were reported in English. Thus, no translation software or searching out a native speaker occurred. All data extraction forms (e.g., data items and individual meta-analysis quality) are available from the first author.

To help address our main aim, we extracted the following information from each meta-analysis: (1) author(s); (2) publication year; (3) construct(s); (4) intervention based meta-analysis (yes, no, mix); (5) performance outcome(s) description; (6) number of studies for the performance outcomes; (7) participant description; (8) main findings; (9) bias correction method/results; and (10) author(s) stated conclusions. For all information sought, we coded missing information as not reported.

Individual meta-analysis quality

ML, AL, and PT independently rated the quality of individual meta-analysis on the following 25 points found in the PRISMA checklist [ 20 ]: title; abstract structured summary; introduction rationale, objectives, and protocol and registration; methods eligibility criteria, information sources, search, study selection, data collection process, data items, risk of bias of individual studies, summary measures, synthesis of results, and risk of bias across studies; results study selection, study characteristics, risk of bias within studies, results of individual studies, synthesis of results, and risk of bias across studies; discussion summary of evidence, limitations, and conclusions; and funding. All meta-analyses were rated for quality by two coders to facilitate inter-coder reliability checks, and the mean quality ratings were used in subsequent analyses. One author (PT), having completed his own ratings, received the incoming ratings from ML and AL and ran the inter-coder analysis. Two rounds of ratings occurred due to discrepancies for seven meta-analyses, mainly between ML and AL. As no objective quality categorizations (i.e., a point system for grouping meta-analyses as poor, medium, good) currently exist, each meta-analysis was allocated a quality score of up to a maximum of 25 points. All coding records are available upon request.

Planned methods of analysis

Several preplanned methods of analysis occurred. We first assessed the mean quality rating of each meta-analysis based on our 25-point PRISMA-based rating system. Next, we used a median split of quality ratings to determine whether standardized mean effects (SMDs) differed by the two formed categories, higher and lower quality meta-analyses. Meta-analysis authors reported either of two different effect size metrics (i.e., r and SMD); hence we converted all correlational effects to SMD (i.e., Cohen’s d ) values using an online effect size calculator ( www.polyu.edu.hk/mm/effectsizefaqs/calculator/calculator.html ). We interpreted the meaningfulness of effects based on Cohen’s interpretation [ 24 ] with 0.20 as small, 0.50 as medium, 0.80 as large, and 1.30 as very large. As some psychological variables associate negatively with performance (e.g., confusion [ 25 ], cognitive anxiety [ 26 ]) whereas others associate positively (e.g., cohesion [ 23 ], mental practice [ 14 ]), we grouped meta-analyses according to whether the hypothesized effect with performance was positive or negative, and summarized the overall effects separately. By doing so, we avoided a scenario whereby the demonstrated positive and negative effects canceled one another out when combined. The effect of somatic anxiety on performance, which is hypothesized to follow an inverted-U relationship, was categorized as neutral [ 35 ]. Last, we grouped the included meta-analyses according to whether the primary studies were correlational in nature or involved an intervention and summarized these two groups of meta-analyses separately.

Study characteristics

Table 1 contains extracted data from 30 meta-analyses meeting the inclusion criteria, dating from 1983 [ 14 ] to 2021 [ 21 ]. The number of primary studies within the meta-analyses ranged from three [ 27 ] to 109 [ 28 ]. In terms of the description of participants included in the meta-analyses, 13 included participants described simply as athletes, whereas other meta-analyses identified a mix of elite athletes (e.g., professional, Olympic), recreational athletes, college-aged volunteers (many from sport science departments), younger children to adolescents, and adult exercisers. Of the 30 included meta-analyses, the majority ( n = 18) were published since 2010. The decadal breakdown of meta-analyses was 1980–1989 ( n = 1 [ 14 ]), 1990–1999 ( n = 6 [ 29 – 34 ]), 2000–2009 ( n = 5 [ 23 , 25 , 26 , 35 , 36 ]), 2010–2019 ( n = 12 [ 18 , 19 , 22 , 27 , 37 – 43 , 48 ]), and 2020–2021 ( n = 6 [ 21 , 28 , 44 – 47 ]).

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263408.t001

As for the constructs covered, we categorized the 30 meta-analyses into the following areas: mental practice/imagery [ 14 , 29 , 30 , 42 , 46 , 47 ], anxiety [ 26 , 31 , 32 , 35 ], confidence [ 26 , 35 , 36 ], cohesion [ 18 , 19 , 23 ], goal orientation [ 22 , 44 , 48 ], mood [ 21 , 25 , 34 ], emotional intelligence [ 40 ], goal setting [ 33 ], interventions [ 37 ], mindfulness [ 27 ], music [ 28 ], neurofeedback training [ 43 ], perfectionism [ 39 ], pressure training [ 45 ], quiet eye training [ 41 ], and self-talk [ 38 ]. Multiple effects were generated from meta-analyses that included more than one construct (e.g., tension, depression, etc. [ 21 ]; anxiety and confidence [ 26 ]). In relation to whether the meta-analyses included in our review assessed the effects of a sport psychology intervention on performance or relationships between psychological constructs and performance, 13 were intervention-based, 14 were correlational, two included a mix of study types, and one included a large majority of cross-sectional studies ( Table 1 ).

A wide variety of performance outcomes across many sports was evident, such as golf putting, dart throwing, maximal strength, and juggling; or categorical outcomes such as win/loss and Olympic team selection. Given the extensive list of performance outcomes and the incomplete descriptions provided in some meta-analyses, a clear categorization or count of performance types was not possible. Sufficient to conclude, researchers utilized many performance outcomes across a wide range of team and individual sports, motor skills, and strength and aerobic tasks.

Effect size data and bias correction

To best summarize the effects, we transformed all correlations to SMD values (i.e., Cohen’s d ). Across all included meta-analyses shown in Table 2 and depicted in Fig 2 , we identified 61 effects. Having corrected for bias, effect size values were assessed for meaningfulness [ 24 ], which resulted in 15 categorized as negligible (< ±0.20), 29 as small (±0.20 to < 0.50), 13 as moderate (±0.50 to < 0.80), 2 as large (±0.80 to < 1.30), and 1 as very large (≥ 1.30).

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263408.g002

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263408.t002

Study quality rating results and summary analyses

Following our PRISMA quality ratings, intercoder reliability coefficients were initially .83 (ML, AL), .95 (ML, PT), and .90 (AL, PT), with a mean intercoder reliability coefficient of .89. To achieve improved reliability (i.e., r mean > .90), ML and AL re-examined their ratings. As a result, intercoder reliability increased to .98 (ML, AL), .96 (ML, PT), and .92 (AL, PT); a mean intercoder reliability coefficient of .95. Final quality ratings (i.e., the mean of two coders) ranged from 13 to 25 ( M = 19.03 ± 4.15). Our median split into higher ( M = 22.83 ± 1.08, range 21.5–25, n = 15) and lower ( M = 15.47 ± 2.42, range 13–20.5, n = 15) quality groups produced significant between-group differences in quality ( F 1,28 = 115.62, p < .001); hence, the median split met our intended purpose. The higher quality group of meta-analyses were published from 2015–2021 (median 2018) and the lower quality group from 1983–2014 (median 2000). It appears that meta-analysis standards have risen over the years since the PRISMA criteria were first introduced in 2009. All data for our analyses are shown in Table 2 .

Table 3 contains summary statistics with bias-corrected values used in the analyses. The overall mean effect for sport psychology constructs hypothesized to have a positive impact on performance was of moderate magnitude ( d = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.42, 0.58, n = 36). The overall mean effect for sport psychology constructs hypothesized to have a negative impact on performance was small in magnitude ( d = -0.21, 95% CI -0.31, -0.11, n = 24). In both instances, effects were larger, although not significantly so, among meta-analyses of higher quality compared to those of lower quality. Similarly, mean effects were larger but not significantly so, where reported effects in the original studies were based on interventional rather than correlational designs. This trend only applied to hypothesized positive effects because none of the original studies in the meta-analyses related to hypothesized negative effects used interventional designs.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263408.t003

In this systematic review of meta-analyses, we synthesized the available evidence regarding effects of sport psychology interventions/constructs on sport performance. We aimed to consolidate the literature, evaluate the potential for meta-analysis quality to influence the results, and suggest recommendations for future research at both the single study and quantitative review stages. During the systematic review process, several meta-analysis characteristics came to light, such as the number of meta-analyses of sport psychology interventions (experimental designs) compared to those summarizing the effects of psychological constructs (correlation designs) on performance, the number of meta-analyses with exclusively athletes as participants, and constructs featuring in multiple meta-analyses, some of which (e.g., cohesion) produced very different effect size values. Thus, although our overall aim was to evaluate the strength of the evidence base for use of psychological interventions in sport, we also discuss the impact of these meta-analysis characteristics on the reliability of the evidence.

When seen collectively, results of our review are supportive of using sport psychology techniques to help improve performance and confirm that variations in psychological constructs relate to variations in performance. For constructs hypothesized to have a positive effect on performance, the mean effect strength was moderate ( d = 0.51) although there was substantial variation between constructs. For example, the beneficial effects on performance of task cohesion ( d = 1.00) and self-efficacy ( d = 0.82) are large, and the available evidence base for use of mindfulness interventions suggests a very large beneficial effect on performance ( d = 1.35). Conversely, some hypothetically beneficial effects (2 of 36; 5.6%) were in the negligible-to-small range (0.15–0.20) and most beneficial effects (19 of 36; 52.8%) were in the small-to-moderate range (0.22–0.49). It should be noted that in the world of sport, especially at the elite level, even a small beneficial effect on performance derived from a psychological intervention may prove the difference between success and failure and hence small effects may be of great practical value. To put the scale of the benefits into perspective, an authoritative and extensively cited review of healthy eating and physical activity interventions [ 49 ] produced an overall pooled effect size of 0.31 (compared to 0.51 for our study), suggesting sport psychology interventions designed to improve performance are generally more effective than interventions designed to promote healthy living.

Among hypothetically negative effects (e.g., ego climate, cognitive anxiety, depression), the mean detrimental effect was small ( d = -0.21) although again substantial variation among constructs was evident. Some hypothetically negative constructs (5 of 24; 20.8%) were found to actually provide benefits to performance, albeit in the negligible range (0.02–0.12) and only two constructs (8.3%), both from Lochbaum and colleagues’ POMS meta-analysis [ 21 ], were shown to negatively affect performance above a moderate level (depression: d = -0.64; total mood disturbance, which incorporates the depression subscale: d = -0.84). Readers should note that the POMS and its derivatives assess six specific mood dimensions rather than the mood construct more broadly, and therefore results should not be extrapolated to other dimensions of mood [ 50 ].

Mean effects were larger among higher quality than lower quality meta-analyses for both hypothetically positive ( d = 0.54 vs d = 0.45) and negative effects ( d = -0.25 vs d = 0.17), but in neither case were the differences significant. It is reasonable to assume that the true effects were derived from the higher quality meta-analyses, although our conclusions remain the same regardless of study quality. Overall, our findings provide a more rigorous evidence base for the use of sport psychology techniques by practitioners than was previously available, representing a significant contribution to knowledge. Moreover, our systematic scrutiny of 30 meta-analyses published between 1983 and 2021 has facilitated a series of recommendations to improve the quality of future investigations in the sport psychology area.

Recommendations

The development of sport psychology as an academic discipline and area of professional practice relies on using evidence and theory to guide practice. Hence, a strong evidence base for the applied work of sport psychologists is of paramount importance. Although the beneficial effects of some sport psychology techniques are small, it is important to note the larger performance benefits for other techniques, which may be extremely meaningful for applied practice. Overall, however, especially given the heterogeneity of the observed effects, it would be wise for applied practitioners to avoid overpromising the benefits of sport psychology services to clients and perhaps underdelivering as a result [ 1 ].

The results of our systematic review can be used to generate recommendations for how the profession might conduct improved research to better inform applied practice. Much of the early research in sport psychology was exploratory and potential moderating variables were not always sufficiently controlled. Terry [ 51 ] outlined this in relation to the study of mood-performance relationships, identifying that physical and skills factors will very likely exert a greater influence on performance than psychological factors. Further, type of sport (e.g., individual vs. team), duration of activity (e.g., short vs. long duration), level of competition (e.g., elite vs. recreational), and performance measure (e.g., norm-referenced vs. self-referenced) have all been implicated as potential moderators of the relationship between psychological variables and sport performance [ 51 ]. To detect the relatively subtle effects of psychological effects on performance, research designs need to be sufficiently sensitive to such potential confounds. Several specific methodological issues are worth discussing.

The first issue relates to measurement. Investigating the strength of a relationship requires the measured variables to be valid, accurate and reliable. Psychological variables in the meta-analyses we reviewed relied primarily on self-report outcome measures. The accuracy of self-report data requires detailed inner knowledge of thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Research shows that the accuracy of self-report information is subject to substantial individual differences [ 52 , 53 ]. Therefore, self-report data, at best, are an estimate of the measure. Measurement issues are especially relevant to the assessment of performance, and considerable measurement variation was evident between meta-analyses. Some performance measures were more sensitive, especially those assessing physical performance relative to what is normal for the individual performer (i.e., self-referenced performance). Hence, having multiple baseline indicators of performance increases the probability of identifying genuine performance enhancement derived from a psychological intervention [ 54 ].

A second issue relates to clarifying the rationale for how and why specific psychological variables might influence performance. A comprehensive review of prerequisites and precursors of athletic talent [ 55 ] concluded that the superiority of Olympic champions over other elite athletes is determined in part by a range of psychological variables, including high intrinsic motivation, determination, dedication, persistence, and creativity, thereby identifying performance-related variables that might benefit from a psychological intervention. Identifying variables that influence the effectiveness of interventions is a challenging but essential issue for researchers seeking to control and assess factors that might influence results [ 49 ]. A key part of this process is to use theory to propose the mechanism(s) by which an intervention might affect performance and to hypothesize how large the effect might be.

A third issue relates to the characteristics of the research participants involved. Out of convenience, it is not uncommon for researchers to use undergraduate student participants for research projects, which may bias results and restrict the generalization of findings to the population of primary interest, often elite athletes. The level of training and physical conditioning of participants will clearly influence their performance. Highly trained athletes will typically make smaller gains in performance over time than novice athletes, due to a ceiling effect (i.e., they have less room for improvement). For example, consider runner A, who takes 20 minutes to run 5km one week but 19 minutes the next week, and Runner B who takes 30 minutes one week and 25 minutes the next. If we compare the two, Runner A runs faster than Runner B on both occasions, but Runner B improved more, so whose performance was better? If we also consider Runner C, a highly trained athlete with a personal best of 14 minutes, to run 1 minute quicker the following week would almost require a world record time, which is clearly unlikely. For this runner, an improvement of a few seconds would represent an excellent performance. Evidence shows that trained, highly motivated athletes may reach performance plateaus and as such are good candidates for psychological skills training. They are less likely to make performance gains due to increased training volume and therefore the impact of psychological skills interventions may emerge more clearly. Therefore, both test-retest and cross-sectional research designs should account for individual difference variables. Further, the range of individual difference factors will be context specific; for example, individual differences in strength will be more important in a study that uses weightlifting as the performance measure than one that uses darts as the performance measure, where individual differences in skill would be more important.

A fourth factor that has not been investigated extensively relates to the variables involved in learning sport psychology techniques. Techniques such as imagery, self-talk and goal setting all require cognitive processing and as such some people will learn them faster than others [ 56 ]. Further, some people are intuitive self-taught users of, for example, mood regulation strategies such as abdominal breathing or listening to music who, if recruited to participate in a study investigating the effects of learning such techniques on performance, would respond differently to novice users. Hence, a major challenge when testing the effects of a psychological intervention is to establish suitable controls. A traditional non-treatment group offers one option, but such an approach does not consider the influence of belief effects (i.e., placebo/nocebo), which can either add or detract from the effectiveness of performance interventions [ 57 ]. If an individual believes that, an intervention will be effective, this provides a motivating effect for engagement and so performance may improve via increased effort rather than the effect of the intervention per se.

When there are positive beliefs that an intervention will work, it becomes important to distinguish belief effects from the proposed mechanism through which the intervention should be successful. Research has shown that field studies often report larger effects than laboratory studies, a finding attributed to higher motivation among participants in field studies [ 58 ]. If participants are motivated to improve, being part of an active training condition should be associated with improved performance regardless of any intervention. In a large online study of over 44,000 participants, active training in sport psychology interventions was associated with improved performance, but only marginally more than for an active control condition [ 59 ]. The study involved 4-time Olympic champion Michael Johnson narrating both the intervention and active control using motivational encouragement in both conditions. Researchers should establish not only the expected size of an effect but also to specify and assess why the intervention worked. Where researchers report performance improvement, it is fundamental to explain the proposed mechanism by which performance was enhanced and to test the extent to which the improvement can be explained by the proposed mechanism(s).

Limitations

Systematic reviews are inherently limited by the quality of the primary studies included. Our review was also limited by the quality of the meta-analyses that had summarized the primary studies. We identified the following specific limitations; (1) only 12 meta-analyses summarized primary studies that were exclusively intervention-based, (2) the lack of detail regarding control groups in the intervention meta-analyses, (3) cross-sectional and correlation-based meta-analyses by definition do not test causation, and therefore provide limited direct evidence of the efficacy of interventions, (4) the extensive array of performance measures even within a single meta-analysis, (5) the absence of mechanistic explanations for the observed effects, and (6) an absence of detail across intervention-based meta-analyses regarding number of sessions, participants’ motivation to participate, level of expertise, and how the intervention was delivered. To ameliorate these concerns, we included a quality rating for all included meta-analyses. Having created higher and lower quality groups using a median split of quality ratings, we showed that effects were larger, although not significantly so, in the higher quality group of meta-analyses, all of which were published since 2015.

Conclusions

Journals are full of studies that investigate relationships between psychological variables and sport performance. Since 1983, researchers have utilized meta-analytic methods to summarize these single studies, and the pace is accelerating, with six relevant meta-analyses published since 2020. Unquestionably, sport psychology and performance research is fraught with limitations related to unsophisticated experimental designs. In our aggregation of the effect size values, most were small-to-moderate in meaningfulness with a handful of large values. Whether these moderate and large values could be replicated using more sophisticated research designs is unknown. We encourage use of improved research designs, at the minimum the use of control conditions. Likewise, we encourage researchers to adhere to meta-analytic guidelines such as PRISMA and for journals to insist on such adherence as a prerequisite for the acceptance of reviews. Although such guidelines can appear as a ‘painting by numbers’ approach, while reviewing the meta-analyses, we encountered difficulty in assessing and finding pertinent information for our study characteristics and quality ratings. In conclusion, much research exists in the form of quantitative reviews of studies published since 1934, almost 100 years after the very first publication about sport psychology and performance [ 2 ]. Sport psychology is now truly global in terms of academic pursuits and professional practice and the need for best practice information plus a strong evidence base for the efficacy of interventions is paramount. We should strive as a profession to research and provide best practices to athletes and the general community of those seeking performance improvements.

Supporting information

S1 checklist..

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0263408.s001

Acknowledgments

We acknowledge the work of all academics since Koch in 1830 [ 2 ] for their efforts to research and promote the practice of applied sport psychology.

1. Terry PC. Applied Sport Psychology. IAAP Handbook of Applied Psychol. Wiley-Blackwell; 2011 Apr 20;386–410.
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4. Rieger K. Der Hypnotismus: Psychiatrische Beiträge zur Kenntniss der Sogenannten Hypnotischen Zustände [Hypnotism: Psychiatric Contributions to the Knowledge of the So-called Hypnotic States]. Würzburg, Germany: University of Würzburg; 1884.
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50. Ekkekakis P. The Measurement of Affect, Mood, and Emotion. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press; 2013.

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Sport psychology and performance meta-analyses: A systematic review of the literature

Marc Lochbaum

1 Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America

2 Education Academy, Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania

Elisabeth Stoner

3 Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America

Tristen Hefner

Sydney cooper.

4 Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Honors College, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America

Andrew M. Lane

5 Faculty of Education, Health and Well-Being, University of Wolverhampton, Walsall, West Midlands, United Kingdom

Peter C. Terry

6 Division of Research & Innovation, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia

Associated Data

All relevant data are within the paper.

Introduction

The development of sport psychology

Meta-analysis in sport psychology

Purpose and aim

Materials and methods

Eligibility criteria

Information sources

Search protocol

Search by ML:

sport psychology, meta-analysis, sport and performance
sport psychology, meta-analysis or quantitative review, sport* performance
sport psychology, quantitative review, sport and performance
sport psychology, quantitative review, sport* performance

Search by ES:

mental practice or mental imagery or mental rehearsal and sports performance and meta-analysis
goal setting and sports performance and meta-analysis
anxiety and stress and sports performance and meta-analysis
competition and sports performance and meta-analysis
diversity and sports performance and meta-analysis
cohesion and sports performance and meta-analysis
imagery and sports performance and meta-analysis
self-confidence and sports performance and meta-analysis
concentration and sports performance and meta-analysis
athletic injuries and sports performance and meta-analysis
overtraining and sports performance and meta-analysis
children and sports performance and meta-analysis

Box 1 cohesion
Box 2 sports performance
Box 3 meta-analysis

Study selection

An external file that holds a picture, illustration, etc.
Object name is pone.0263408.g001.jpg

Data extraction process

Individual meta-analysis quality

Planned methods of analysis

Study characteristics

Effect size data and bias correction

An external file that holds a picture, illustration, etc.
Object name is pone.0263408.g002.jpg

Study quality rating results and summary analyses

Note. k = number of effects, N.S. = non-significant, n/a = not applicable.

Recommendations

Limitations

Conclusions

Supporting information

S1 checklist, acknowledgments.

We acknowledge the work of all academics since Koch in 1830 [ 2 ] for their efforts to research and promote the practice of applied sport psychology.

Funding Statement

The author(s) received no specific funding for this work.

Data Availability

PLoS One. 2022; 17(2): e0263408.

Decision Letter 0

PONE-D-21-31186Sport psychology and performance meta-analyses: A systematic review of the literaturePLOS ONE

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Reviewer #1: Yes

Reviewer #2: Yes

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Reviewer #1: No

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Reviewer #1: The paper entitled: “Sport psychology and performance meta-analyses: A systematic review of the literature” aimed to synthesize the extant literature to gain insights into the overall impact of sport psychology on athletic performance. The paper is well written and has a great and strong methodology. However, the introduction and discussion are not persuasive enough that the findings make a significant contribution to the literature and could therefore override these limitations. I include some comments below related to this summary for consideration.

1. In relation to the contribution of the study to the literature, I did not get a sense from the article that the findings revealed anything other than what we already know. Please clarified that;

2. The introduction of the paper was very descriptive, it did not situate the current study in literature or highlight what the gap in the literature is that this study is trying to address. At least, the authors should situate better the main purposes of this study;

3. The discussion is very descriptive and any statements about the contribution and conclusions of the study are not new. At least this moment. Please clarified better and justified your choices.

4. Overall, the paper has conditions for be accepted in PLOS ONE, however the authors should clarified the points above.

Reviewer #2: The submitted work presents a very interesting approach to summarize the results of systematic reviews/meta-analysis regarding sport psychology and performance. I must say that it is rare as a reviewer to find a so relevant and well developed study (particularly a review of literature) in which I can add and help so little. The authors are to be commended for the excellent work developed.

Given this, I can make 1 or 2 remarks in some sections, although I do not believe they are needed to ensure a final quality of the developed work. I believe this work can be published as it is, and my comments should only be considered if the authors feel they are noteworthy.

Lines 99 to 102. Given that several examples were presented before (e.g., journals), why the inclusion of only one book? Several examples could be given here, thus maintaining the line of reasoning presented before.

In method, why report PRISMA 2009, 2015 and 2020 guidelines? As stated in the Page et al (2020) reference used: "The PRISMA 2020 statement replaces the 2009 statement and includes new reporting guidance that reflects advances in methods to identify, select, appraise, and synthesis studies". Won't the 2020 reference be enough?

As a last remark, I wonder if a discussion (or a comment in the discussion/limitations) regarding mood, and particularly POMS, is needed. In this work and in some of the cited works (e.g., Lochbaum et al., 2021, EJIHPE) no discussion regarding the issues of POMS as an assessing tool for mood is presented. As mentioned by several researchers (e.g., Ekkekakis, 2013), POMS do not assess mood, at least not in a global domain. This do not impact directly this work, as generally only each of the six distinct states are explored. However, when interpreting figure 2 and extracting mood results, perhaps some clarification would frame the readers on this issues and respective interpretation of results.

Ekkekakis, P. (2013). The measurement of affect, mood and emotion. Cambridge University Press.

I am sorry I can not help any further with my comments. Thank you for your work.

Best regards

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Reviewer #2: Yes: Diogo S. Teixeira

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Author response to Decision Letter 0

13 Dec 2021

Response to Reviewers

Thank you to both reviewers for taking time to review and comment on our manuscript. We addressed all comments.

Reviewer #1: Yes

Reviewer #2: Yes

Author response: Thank you to the reviewers for their positive comments.

________________________________________

Reviewer #1: No

Author response: All pertinent data are found in Table 1 – 2 and in Figure 1.

Author response: Reviewer 1’s concerns have been addressed below.

Reviewer #1

The paper entitled: “Sport psychology and performance meta-analyses: A systematic review of the literature” aimed to synthesize the extant literature to gain insights into the overall impact of sport psychology on athletic performance. The paper is well written and has a great and strong methodology. However, the introduction and discussion are not persuasive enough that the findings make a significant contribution to the literature and could therefore override these limitations. I include some comments below related to this summary for consideration.

• Author response: We have amended the paper to address the three concerns below.

Comment 1. In relation to the contribution of the study to the literature, I did not get a sense from the article that the findings revealed anything other than what we already know. Please clarified that;

• Author response: We have expanded on the gap in the knowledge that we addressed on lines 115-121 on the revised manuscript.

Comment 2. The introduction of the paper was very descriptive, it did not situate the current study in literature or highlight what the gap in the literature is that this study is trying to address. At least, the authors should situate better the main purposes of this study;

• Author response: Currently, sport psychology practitioners wishing to use evidence-based strategies are faced with inconsistent evidence about the efficacy of sport psychology techniques. Our paper addresses this inconsistency by assessing the effectiveness of techniques collectively. This is explained on lines 115-121 and with some small modifications on lines 125-128.

Comment 3. The discussion is very descriptive and any statements about the contribution and conclusions of the study are not new. At least this moment. Please clarified better and justified your choices.

• Author response: As suggested, a stronger summary of the contribution of the paper is provided on lines 371-375. We would also argue that the recommendations section for improvements to future studies also represents a significant contribution to the body of knowledge. If the information provided is already well known, as the reviewer suggests, then we would question why previous investigators have not implemented it in their studies.

Comment 4. Overall, the paper has conditions for be accepted in PLOS ONE, however the authors should clarified the points above.

• Author response: We thank you for your comments, which have served to improve our paper.

Reviewer #2

The submitted work presents a very interesting approach to summarize the results of systematic reviews/meta-analysis regarding sport psychology and performance. I must say that it is rare as a reviewer to find a so relevant and well developed study (particularly a review of literature) in which I can add and help so little. The authors are to be commended for the excellent work developed.

• Author response: Many thanks for your extremely positive comments.

Comment 1. Given this, I can make 1 or 2 remarks in some sections, although I do not believe they are needed to ensure a final quality of the developed work. I believe this work can be published as it is, and my comments should only be considered if the authors feel they are noteworthy.

• Author response: As suggested, we have added some additional references to books on lines 99-104 and added them to the reference list on lines 523-524 and 527-529.

Comment 2. In method, why report PRISMA 2009, 2015 and 2020 guidelines? As stated in the Page et al (2020) reference used: "The PRISMA 2020 statement replaces the 2009 statement and includes new reporting guidance that reflects advances in methods to identify, select, appraise, and synthesis studies". Won't the 2020 reference be enough?

• Author response: As suggested, we have removed reference to the PRISMA guidelines published in 2009 and 2015.

Comment 3. As a last remark, I wonder if a discussion (or a comment in the discussion/limitations) regarding mood, and particularly POMS, is needed. In this work and in some of the cited works (e.g., Lochbaum et al., 2021, EJIHPE) no discussion regarding the issues of POMS as an assessing tool for mood is presented. As mentioned by several researchers (e.g., Ekkekakis, 2013), POMS do not assess mood, at least not in a global domain. This do not impact directly this work, as generally only each of the six distinct states are explored. However, when interpreting figure 2 and extracting mood results, perhaps some clarification would frame the readers on this issues and respective interpretation of results.

• Author response: It was not our intent to critique the construct validity of the measures used in the meta-analyses we reviewed. Nevertheless, as suggested, we have added a note that the POMS and its derivatives do not measure all aspects of the global domain of mood (see lines 364-366).

I am sorry I cannot help any further with my comments. Thank you for your work.

• Author response: We are delighted to know that you thought so highly of our paper.

Submitted filename: Response to Reviewers.docx

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Home » 500+ Sports Research Topics

500+ Sports Research Topics

Sports research topics cover a vast array of areas in the world of athletics, from the physical and psychological impacts of sport on athletes to the social and cultural implications of sports on society. Sports research can include studies on training techniques, nutrition, injury prevention, performance enhancement, and much more. It can also explore the societal impact of sports, such as the role of sports in shaping national identities, gender roles, and cultural values. As a result, the field of sports research provides a unique lens through which to understand the complex relationship between sports and society, and offers insights that can benefit athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts alike. In this post, we will explore some of the most fascinating and important sports research topics that are currently being investigated.

Sports Research Topics

Sports Research Topics are as follows:

The psychological benefits of participating in team sports
The impact of sports on academic achievement
The role of sports in promoting physical health and fitness
The impact of sports on mental health and well-being
The benefits and drawbacks of early specialization in youth sports
The relationship between sports and character development
The role of sports in building social capital and community cohesion
The impact of technology on sports training and performance
The influence of gender on sports participation and achievement
The impact of culture on sports participation and achievement
The economics of professional sports: salaries, revenue, and team valuations
The role of sports in promoting diversity and inclusion
The impact of sports on political and social change
The impact of sports sponsorship on consumer behavior
The impact of doping in sports on athlete health and performance
The role of nutrition in sports performance
The impact of weather conditions on sports performance
The influence of crowd behavior on sports performance and player behavior
The impact of sports injuries on athlete health and career longevity
The impact of sports on tourism and local economies
The role of sports in promoting peace and conflict resolution
The impact of globalization on sports and their respective cultures
The impact of sports on national identity and patriotism
The impact of sports media on fan behavior and athlete performance
The impact of sports on the environment
The influence of sports fans on team strategy and decision-making
The impact of sports gambling on sports integrity and athlete health
The impact of sports specialization on long-term athlete development
The influence of sports referees and officials on game outcomes
The role of technology in sports officiating and decision-making
The impact of sports on youth development and socialization
The role of sports in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment
The impact of sports on personal identity and self-esteem
The role of sports in promoting physical literacy and lifelong physical activity
The impact of fan behavior on athlete mental health and well-being
The influence of sports broadcasters on fan behavior and attitudes
The role of sports in promoting healthy competition and fair play
The impact of sports participation on academic performance in children
The influence of social media on athlete behavior and fan engagement
The impact of sports on international diplomacy and political relations
The influence of coach behavior on athlete mental health and performance
The role of sports in promoting cultural understanding and awareness
The impact of sports science on athlete training and performance
The impact of youth sports on parent-child relationships
The influence of sports team culture on athlete behavior and performance
The role of sports in promoting environmental sustainability
The impact of sports on social mobility and economic inequality
The influence of sports on global health issues
The impact of sports on regional and national identity
The role of sports in promoting positive youth development and resilience.
The impact of technology on sports performance
The effects of altitude on ball flight in sports like golf and tennis
The effects of sports on stress management
The impact of COVID-19 on the sports industry
The impact of technology on sports officiating and rule enforcement
The role of sports in promoting cultural heritage and preservation
The impact of sports on mental toughness and resilience among athletes
The effects of different types of recovery interventions on sports injury rehabilitation
The role of sports in promoting intergenerational connections and social capital
The effects of different types of sports psychology interventions on team dynamics and performance in professional sports
The role of sports in promoting peacebuilding and conflict resolution in divided societies
The impact of sports on career development and job satisfaction among sports journalists
The effects of different types of recovery interventions on injury prevention and performance in powerlifting
The role of sports in promoting social innovation and entrepreneurship among youth
The impact of sports on social identity and community building among refugees and immigrants
The effects of different types of sports nutrition interventions on brain health and cognitive function in older adults
The role of sports in promoting sustainable urban development and active transportation
The impact of sports on social capital and political engagement among LGBTQ+ athletes
The effects of different types of training interventions on injury prevention and recovery in equestrian sports.
The impact of sports on body image and self-esteem among female athletes
The effects of different types of sports equipment on performance and injury risk in extreme sports
The role of sports in promoting cultural diplomacy and international relations
The impact of sports on emotional regulation and mental health among adolescent athletes
The effects of different types of nutrition interventions on injury prevention and recovery in team sports
The role of sports in promoting civic engagement and political participation among athletes
The impact of sports on cognitive development and academic achievement in early childhood
The effects of different types of sports psychology interventions on sports performance and mental health
The role of sports in promoting environmental education and sustainability in schools
The impact of sports on career development and employability among retired athletes
The effects of different types of mindfulness interventions on sports performance and well-being
The role of sports in promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding
The impact of sports on emotional intelligence and leadership development among coaches
The effects of different types of sports supplements on performance and health outcomes
The role of sports in promoting disaster risk reduction and resilience in coastal communities
The impact of sports on social identity and group dynamics in fan communities
The effects of different types of sports training on injury prevention and recovery in power sports
The role of sports in promoting digital literacy and technological innovation in youth
The impact of sports on social-emotional learning and character development in schools
The effects of different types of nutrition interventions on sports performance and cognitive function in older adults
The role of sports in promoting gender equity and empowerment in sports organizations
The impact of sports on cultural identity and community building among Indigenous peoples
The effects of different types of training interventions on injury prevention and recovery in para-athletes
The role of sports in promoting global health and disease prevention
The impact of sports on social support and mental health among parents of youth athletes
The effects of different types of recovery interventions on sports performance and injury prevention in master athletes
The role of sports in promoting community-based health education and behavior change
The impact of sports on identity development and socialization among adolescent girls
The effects of different types of sports nutrition interventions on gut microbiota and health outcomes
The role of sports in promoting intercultural communication and language learning
The impact of sports on psychological well-being and job satisfaction among sports officials
The effects of different types of mindfulness interventions on injury prevention and recovery in endurance sports
The role of sports in promoting sustainable tourism and economic development in rural areas
The impact of sports on social integration and inclusion among individuals with disabilities
The effects of different types of sports equipment on biomechanics and performance in precision sports
The role of sports in promoting community resilience and disaster risk reduction in urban areas
The impact of sports on social-emotional development and academic achievement among at-risk youth
The effects of different types of sports nutrition interventions on immune function and health outcomes
The role of sports in promoting social justice and human rights in sport governance
The impact of sports on community development and social capital in post-conflict areas
The effects of different types of resistance training on injury prevention and recovery in endurance athletes
The role of sports in promoting intergenerational relationships and aging well-being
The impact of sports on social support and mental health among retired athletes
The role of sports in promoting civic activism and social change
The impact of sports on sleep quality and quantity in professional athletes
The effects of different types of stretching on recovery and injury prevention
The role of sports in promoting environmental justice and sustainability
The impact of sports on emotional intelligence and social skills among youth athletes
The effects of different types of resistance training on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting peace and conflict resolution in divided societies
The impact of sports on academic achievement and career success among athletes
The effects of different types of endurance training on injury prevention and recovery
The role of sports in promoting cultural diversity and inclusion
The impact of sports on team cohesion and communication
The effects of different types of dietary interventions on sports performance and recovery
The role of sports in promoting mental health and well-being in marginalized communities
The impact of sports on cognitive function and academic achievement in children
The effects of different types of cooling interventions on sports performance and recovery
The role of sports in promoting community resilience and disaster preparedness
The impact of sports on social capital and social mobility in low-income communities
The effects of different types of sports nutrition interventions on bone health and injury prevention
The role of sports in promoting global citizenship and intercultural competence
The impact of sports on personal and professional development among athletes
The effects of different types of training programs on sports performance and injury prevention in older adults
The role of sports in promoting human rights and social justice
The impact of sports on decision-making and risk-taking behavior in adolescents
The effects of different types of aerobic exercise on cognitive function and brain health
The role of sports in promoting sustainable development and social innovation
The impact of sports on social integration and belonging among refugees and immigrants
The effects of different types of sports equipment on injury risk and performance
The role of sports in promoting gender equality and empowerment in developing countries
The impact of sports on academic engagement and achievement among middle school students
The effects of different types of hydration interventions on sports performance and recovery
The role of sports in promoting community-based tourism and economic development
The impact of sports on identity formation and self-concept among athletes
The effects of different types of sports training on bone health and injury prevention in female athletes
The role of sports in promoting environmental conservation and climate action
The impact of sports on personal values and character development among athletes
The effects of different types of sports nutrition interventions on cardiovascular health and performance
The role of sports in promoting community-based disaster response and recovery
The impact of sports on social support and well-being among LGBTQ+ athletes
The effects of different types of recovery interventions on injury rehabilitation and return to play in professional athletes
The role of sports in promoting social entrepreneurship and innovation
The impact of sports on moral reasoning and ethical decision-making among athletes
The effects of different types of training programs on cognitive function and academic achievement in children
The role of sports in promoting social inclusion and equality in urban settings
The impact of sports on social identity and collective action among fans
The effects of different types of recovery interventions on sports performance and injury prevention in adolescent athletes
The effects of different types of recovery modalities on injury prevention in sports
The role of sports in promoting cultural diplomacy
The impact of sports participation on academic achievement among college students
The effects of different types of hydration strategies on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting social cohesion and community building
The impact of sports on physical and cognitive aging
The effects of different types of warm-down on sports performance and injury prevention
The role of sports in promoting positive youth development
The impact of sports on crime and delinquency among youth
The effects of different types of endurance training on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting gender equity and empowerment
The impact of sports on mental health among athletes
The effects of different types of carbohydrate intake on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting international relations and diplomacy
The impact of sports on body image and self-esteem among adolescents
The effects of different types of sports drinks on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting environmental sustainability and conservation
The impact of sports on cognitive function and brain health
The effects of different types of sports psychology interventions on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting social justice and human rights
The impact of sports on physical activity levels and sedentary behavior
The effects of different types of pre-game nutrition on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting economic development and tourism
The impact of sports on cultural and national identity
The effects of different types of footwear on injury risk in sports
The role of sports in promoting civic engagement and democracy
The impact of sports on sleep quality and quantity
The effects of different types of anaerobic training on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting intergenerational relationships and socialization
The impact of sports on body composition and weight management
The effects of different types of sports psychology interventions on injury prevention and recovery
The role of sports in promoting peacebuilding and conflict resolution
The impact of sports on self-efficacy and self-esteem among athletes
The effects of different types of protein intake on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting health equity and reducing health disparities
The impact of sports on social capital and community resilience
The effects of different types of high-intensity interval training on sports performance
The impact of sports on stress and stress-related disorders
The effects of different types of dietary supplements on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting human development and well-being
The impact of sports on emotional regulation and mental health
The effects of different types of strength training on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting social innovation and entrepreneurship
The impact of sports on social identity and belonging
The effects of different types of cognitive training on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting disaster resilience and preparedness
The impact of sports on academic engagement and achievement among high school students
The effects of different types of stretching on injury prevention and sports performance.
The effects of different types of training on athletic performance
The effectiveness of different coaching styles in sports
The role of nutrition in athletic performance
The psychology of injury rehabilitation in sports
The use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports
The role of sports in promoting physical and mental health
The impact of social media on sports marketing
The effectiveness of sports marketing campaigns
The effects of gender and ethnicity on sports participation and performance
The impact of sports sponsorship on athlete performance
The role of sports in promoting teamwork and leadership
The effects of environmental conditions on sports performance
The impact of sports on community development
The psychology of winning and losing in sports
The effects of sleep on sports performance
The use of virtual reality in sports training
The impact of sports injuries on athletes’ careers
The effects of altitude on athletic performance
The use of data analysis in sports performance assessment
The role of sports in reducing stress and anxiety
The impact of sports on academic performance
The effects of different sports on cardiovascular health
The use of cryotherapy in sports recovery
The impact of social media on sports fans and fandom
The effects of different types of footwear on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting physical activity among children and adolescents
The effects of different types of stretching on sports performance
The impact of sports on social and cultural values
The effects of hydration on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting global understanding and diplomacy
The effects of different types of surfaces on sports performance
The impact of sports on economic development
The impact of sports on mental toughness and resilience
The effects of different types of recovery methods on sports performance
The use of mindfulness in sports performance and injury recovery
The impact of sports on environmental sustainability
The effects of different types of warm-up on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting tourism and travel
The impact of sports on crime reduction and community safety
The effects of different types of sports equipment on performance
The impact of sports on job creation and employment opportunities
The effects of different types of physical activity on mental health
The role of sports in promoting social mobility and equality
The impact of sports on identity formation and socialization
The effects of different types of pre-game rituals on sports performance.
The role of sports in promoting healthy aging
The impact of sports on conflict resolution among youth
The effects of sports on job satisfaction and productivity
The role of sports in promoting environmental conservation
The impact of sports on language proficiency and communication skills
The effects of sports on the development of social skills
The role of sports in promoting peaceful coexistence and tolerance
The impact of sports on community building and cohesion
The effects of different types of sports on hand-eye coordination
The impact of sports on personal growth and self-discovery
The effects of sports on cultural competency
The role of sports in promoting social and emotional learning
The impact of sports on community health
The effects of different types of sports on reaction time
The role of sports in promoting social justice and equity
The impact of sports on academic motivation and achievement
The effects of sports on the development of grit and resilience
The role of sports in promoting civic engagement and social responsibility.
The impact of sports on tourism
The role of sports in promoting physical activity
The effects of playing sports on cognitive development
The impact of sports on political identity
The effects of sports on self-esteem and body image
The role of sports in promoting teamwork and collaboration
The effects of different coaching styles on athlete performance
The impact of sports on national security
The role of sports in promoting cultural exchange and diplomacy
The effects of sports on language acquisition
The impact of sports on family dynamics
The role of sports in promoting conflict resolution
The impact of sports on social mobility
The effects of different types of training on injury prevention
The role of sports in promoting global health
The effects of sports on decision-making and risk-taking behavior
The role of sports in promoting physical and mental well-being
The impact of sports on social justice
The effects of sports on academic achievement among at-risk youth
The role of sports in promoting cultural heritage
The impact of sports on personal identity
The effects of sports on emotional intelligence and empathy
The role of sports in promoting gender equality
The impact of sports on identity formation
The effects of different types of sports on balance and coordination
The role of sports in promoting social capital
The impact of sports on social integration and inclusion
The effects of training at high altitudes on athletic performance
The psychological factors that contribute to athlete burnout
The relationship between sleep and athletic performance
The effects of music on sports performance
The effects of caffeine on sports performance
The impact of climate on sports performance
The use of supplements in sports performance
The role of genetics in sports performance
The effects of aging on sports performance
The impact of sports injuries on athlete’s careers
The relationship between sports and mental health
The effects of gender on sports performance
The impact of social media on sports
The effects of sports fandom on mental health
The use of technology in sports coaching
The impact of team culture on sports performance
The effects of sports specialization on athlete development
The role of sports psychology in athlete performance
The effects of plyometric training on athletic performance
The impact of climate change on outdoor sports
The effects of team dynamics on sports performance
The impact of sports participation on academic achievement
The effects of sports sponsorship on athlete performance
The role of biomechanics in sports performance
The effects of stretching on sports performance
The impact of sports equipment on performance
The effects of altitude training on endurance sports performance
The effects of different types of training on sports performance
The role of nutrition in injury prevention
The effects of mental preparation on sports performance
The effects of climate on indoor sports performance
The role of sports in cultural identity
The impact of sports participation on youth development
The effects of strength training on sports performance
The role of coaches in athlete development
The impact of sports on national identity
The effects of different playing surfaces on sports performance
The role of recovery in sports performance
The impact of sports on local economies
The impact of sports on gender and racial equality
The effects of team size on sports performance
The role of sports in promoting social inclusion
The effects of sports on personal development
The impact of sports on conflict resolution
The effects of sports on leadership development

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Home > College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences > Departments > Sport and Exercise Psychology > Sport and Exercise Psychology Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Sport and Exercise Psychology Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

Living Your Best Life: The Mindful Pursuit of Student-Athlete Thriving , Andrew Augustus

Working with Community Partners in WV: Learning How to Frame Health Equity in Physical Activity Interventions , Karly Marie Casanave-Phillips

How do college student-athletes’ understanding and expectations of mindfulness and self-compassion change through an intervention? , Blake Costalupes

“Building the Roots”: A Delphi Study Examining the Aims of a Multicultural Competency Graduate Course in Sport and Exercise Psychology , Matthew Paul Gonzalez

Exploring the Conceptualizations and Utilizations of Learning Theories in Sport Settings , Kevin R. Lou

Drivers of Change in Mindfulness- and Acceptance-Based Interventions with Athletes: Investigating the Influence of Dosage, Readiness, and Attitudes , Thomas O. Minkler

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Short-Term International Sport for Development and Peace Programs: A Retrospective Analysis and Critique Informed by Stakeholders’ Perspectives in a Two-Year Follow-Up , Adam Hansell

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

'Deporte y Cambio Social': Women's Empowerment SDP Program in Mexico , Sofia Espana Perez

A Qualitative Study of College Athletes’ Experiences of the COVID-19 Pandemic , Carra Johnson

Meeting the Mental Health Needs of Student-Athletes: A Descriptive Study of Practitioners and their Perspectives , William C. Way III

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

A Phenomenological Photovoice Exploration of Female Exercisers’ Experiences of their Body in Fitness Center Environments , Katherine E. Fairhurst

Exploring the Relationship Between Hardiness and Performance in Collegiate Baseball Players , Kevin R. Lou

Using the social ecological model to build a path analysis model of physical activity in a sample of active US college students , Jonathan J. Stewart

"Yo, I Like Your Walk-Up Song": Music Integration in Professional Baseball Gamedays , Seth Swary

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Stigma, Attitudes, and Intentions to Seek Mental Health Services in College Student-Athletes , Robert C. Hilliard M.S.

Supporting The Injured Athlete: Coaches’ Perspectives On Providing Social Support , Stefanee Opal Maurice

Being Mindful of Perfectionism and Performance Among Athletes in a Judged Sport , Erika D. Van Dyke

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Competitive Aggressiveness, Anger, and the Experience of Provocation in Collegiate Athletes , Michael E. Berrebi

Functional Movement Screen Composite Scores for Collegiate Field Club Sport Athletes at One University , Daniel Camillone

Exploring the Use of Sport as a Platform for Health Promotion with Youth in Africa: A Scoping Review. , Adam H. Hansell

Use of Four Predictive Screening Variables for Determination of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction in Adolescent Soccer Athletes , Brian Hanson

Coaching life skills through sport: An application of the teaching personal and social responsibility model to youth sport in eSwatini , Zenzi Huysmans

Psychosocial Development of Junior Hockey Players , Alexander John Sturges

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Players' Responses to and Primary Caregivers' Perceptions of Authoritarian and Authoritative Coaching in the Inner-City , Renee Brown

Examining the Impact of a Short-Term Psychological Skills Training Program on Dancers' Coping Skills, Pain Appraisals, and Injuries , Leigh A. Bryant

Changes in Athletes' Anxiety, Anger, and Impulsiveness following Concussion , Megan Byrd

Development of Ethics Education Guidelines for Undergraduate Athletic Training Education Programs , Kaitlynn Cullen

Using a Multi-Omic Approach to Investigate a Diet Intervention in Young Adults at Risk of Disease , Oluremi Ariel Famodu

Approaches to Supervision in Sport Psychology and their Influences on Initial Supervisees' Professional Development , Janaina Lima Fogaca

High School Coaches' Experiences with Openly Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Athletes , Meghan K. Halbrook

#Physical Activity: Influencing Parent Behavior Change Through Social Media , Adam Keath

The Effects of an Exercise and Kinesiotape Intervention on Forward HeadRounded Shoulder Posture and Scapular Dyskinesis , Lucas Klawiter

Student-Athletes' Experiences with Racial Microaggressions in Sport: A Foucauldian Discourse Analysis , Sae-Mi Lee

The Effects of a Six Week Lumbopelvic Control and Balance Training Program in High School Basketball Players , Margaret Long

Thrombospondin-1 and Cd47 Mediate Peripheral Microvascular Dysfunction Following Pulmonary Exposure to Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes , W. Kyle Mandler

The Investigation of Motor Primitives During Human Reaching Movements and the Quantification of Post-Stroke Motor Impairment , Erienne Virginia Olesh

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

The Effect of Lower Extremity Asymmetries on Low Back and Lower Extremity Pain with Pregnancy , Erica Casto

Do Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviors, and Nutrition Affect Healthy Weight in Middle School Students in an Appalachian Community? Children's Health Opportunities Involving Coordinated Efforts in Schools (CHOICES) Project , Kibum Cho

How Far is Too Far? Understanding Identity and Overconformity in Collegiate Wrestlers , Ashley M. Coker-Cranney

An Examination of Collegiate Athletes', Undergraduate Sport Science Majors', and Athlete Majors' Intent to Pursue Collegiate Coaching as a Career , Lauren Deckelbaum

A preliminary exploration of the application of self-compassion within the context of sport injury , Zenzi Huysmans

Psychosocial Predictors of Resilience in a Military Sample , Anna-Marie C. Jaeschke

Evaluating the Efficacy of Various Modalities to Improve Arterial Stiffness , Corey Moore

The Influence Over Time of Abdominal Strength Changes on Gluteus Maximus Strength , Taylor M. Opperhauser

Use of a Functional Movement Screening Tool to Determine Injury Risk in Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Athletes , Sara E. Spencer

Adherence to Sport Rehabilitation , Kjersti A. Traaen

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Surgery and Rehabilitation Treatment Options for Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries of the Elbow for Baseball Athletes: A Systematic Review , Amanda M. Damm

What elite men's collegiate tennis coaches look for in recruits and how they assess preferred player characteristics , Brandyn H. Fisher

The Influences of Participation in an Elite Paralympic Military Program on the Self-Identity of Active Duty Service Members with Acquired Disabilities , Lindsay M. Hammond

The Influence of Physical Activity on International Students' Cross-Cultural Adjustment: A Qualitative Longitudinal Study , Shuang Li

Becoming a Mindful Sport Psychology Consultant: Defining, Developing, and Integrating Mindfulness into Practice , Michelle M. McAlarnen

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Certified Athletic Trainers' Abilities to Identify and Refer Athletes with Psychological Symptoms , Marc L. Cormier

Usage of Evidence Based Medicine Resources in Clinically Practicing Athletic Trainers , Kenneth G. Faldetta

Division I College Student-Athlete Career Situation and Attitudes toward Career Counseling , Adrian J. Ferrera

An Evaluation of State Employees' Preferences for Worksite-based Physical Activity, Nutrition, and Stress Management Programs , Peter Kadushin

The use of joint mobilization on mechanical instability deficits for a lateral ankle sprain: A Systematic Review , Kathleen M. Kerecman

The Effect of a Six Week Functional Training Program on Performance Outcomes in Softball , Zachary M. Mohondro

Sport Psychology "App"lication: NCAA Coaches' Preferences for a Mental Training Mobile App , Raymond F. Prior

"It's not just your dad and it's not just your coach..." The dual-role relationship in female tennis players , Olivier N. Schmid

Stoking the Flames of Wellness: An Exploration of Factors that Influence West Virginia Firefighters' Health Behaviors , Chelsea B. Wooding

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

The Influence of Gender on the Peer Leadership-Cohesion Relationship , Michael E. Berrebi

Stressors and Coping Behaviors of Female Peer Leaders Participating in College Club Sports , Leigh A. Bryant

An Exploration of Master's Degree Field Study and Teacher and Student Behavior in P.E , William J. Davis

An Exploratory Investigation of Baseball Coaches' Attitudes and Experiences With Sport Psychology , Jesse D. Michel

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Using Concept Mapping to Identify Action Steps for Physical Activity Promotion in Cancer Treatment , Sean J. Fitzpatrick

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At-Risk Student-Athletes and Academic Achievement: Experiences of Successful and Unsuccessful First Year Collegiate Football Players , Samantha J. Monda

A Survey of Bariatric Surgical Patients' Experiences with Behavioral and Psychological Services , Jessica C. Peacock

A tailored wellness intervention for college students using internet-based technology , Alessandro Quartiroli

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The effects of a walking intervention on self-efficacy for coping with cancer and quality of life among cancer patients during treatment , Sean J. Fitzpatrick

Validity and reliability of accelerometers for examining vertical jump performance , Ryan M. Ruben

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

The evaluation of a nutrition education and fitness program with a contest component among college students using the RE-AIM framework , Michelle L. Bartlett

An individualized multimodal mental skills intervention for college athletes undergoing injury rehabilitation , Jamie L. Shapiro

The role of emotional intelligence on coach-athlete relationships and motivational climate , Eric E. Steege

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Effectiveness of an educational intervention on the attitudes toward sport psychology of athletic training students , Damien Clement

Impact of a physical activity intervention for weight loss: A qualitative analysis of participant perceptions and expectations , Jessica Anne Creasy

Leadership and organizational culture transformation in professional sport , Joe Frontiera

Motivation in sport: Bridging historical and contemporary theory through a qualitative approach , Daniel J. Leidl

Theses/Dissertations from 2007 2007

Impact of a tailored intervention on coaches' attitudes and use of sport psychology services , Rebecca Zakrajsek

Theses/Dissertations from 2006 2006

Does physical disability truly create impairment in adjustment to college life? , Jennifer R. Hurst

The transtheoretical model and psychological skills training: Application and implications with elite female athletes , Linda Ann Keeler

Theses/Dissertations from 2005 2005

The role of apoptosis in muscle remodeling , Parco Ming-fai Siu

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Psychology Essay Topics

Get Inspired with Over 200 Psychology Essay Topics and Writing Tips

14 min read

Published on: May 2, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

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Are you struggling to come up with interesting and unique psychology essay topics? Do you find it challenging to write a compelling psychology essay that stands out from the rest?

Psychology is a fascinating subject. However, selecting a topic that is both engaging and informative can be a daunting task.

But fear not!

This blog provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of psychology essay topics. From general psychology topics to specific and interesting areas of research, we have got you covered. Additionally, we offer tips to help you write a successful essay, from choosing a topic to editing your final draft.

By the end of it, you will be able to write a standout psychology essay that fully showcases your understanding.

Let's dive in!

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Psychology Research Topics For High School Students

Here is a persuasive essay topics list to get you started:

The influence of social media on mental health
The psychology of dreams and their interpretations
Effects of stress on academic performance
Does childhood trauma impact mental health in adulthood, and if so, how?
How does meditation impact the brain and promote well-being?
Why do we make the choices we do, and how can we make better decisions?
How does spending time in nature impact mental health and well-being?
How does perception affect our interpretation of reality, and can it be changed
The power of music on human emotions and behavior
The relationship between exercise and mental health

Psychology Paper Topics For College Students

The psychology of addiction and effective treatments.
The impact of childhood experiences on adult mental health.
The psychology of prejudice and how to overcome biases.
The role of emotions in decision-making and behavior.
The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function and well-being.
Effective leadership traits and development.
The psychology of procrastination: Why we do it and how to overcome it.
The impact of social support on mental health.
The effects of mindfulness on stress and anxiety.
The psychology of motivation: What drives our behavior and how to stay motivated.

Research Topics In Psychology For University Students

The effects of social media on self-esteem and body image.
The impact of childhood trauma on brain development and function.
The psychology of happiness: What makes us happy and how can we cultivate it?
The role of genetics in mental health disorders and treatment implications.
How does social media affect self-esteem and body image?
What is the impact of childhood trauma on brain development and function?
What makes us happy and how can we cultivate happiness?
The psychology of mindfulness: Benefits and applications for well-being.
The impact of cultural differences on cognitive processes and behavior.
What are the dynamics of attraction, attachment, and relationships in the psychology of love?

Social Psychology Essay Topics

How do social roles and expectations affect behavior?
What is the role of social identity in intergroup relations?
How do attitudes and persuasion shape behavior?
What are the psychological factors that influence conformity?
What is the impact of social comparison on self-esteem?
The influence of culture on social behavior
The role of empathy in social interactions
The impact of social exclusion on mental health
The effects of social comparison on body image
The psychology of altruism and helping behavior

Forensic Psychology Essay Topics

How can forensic psychology contribute to criminal profiling?
What is the impact of psychological factors on criminal behavior?
How do juries make decisions in criminal cases, and what role does psychology play?
What is the impact of false confessions on the criminal justice system?
How can forensic psychologists help prevent and treat juvenile delinquency?
The psychology of criminal behavior and decision-making
The use of psychological assessment in criminal trials
The role of media in shaping public perceptions of crime
The impact of trauma on criminal behavior
The psychology of witness testimony

Criminal Psychology Essay Topics

How do psychological factors contribute to the development of criminal behavior?
What is the impact of childhood experiences on criminal behavior?
How can criminal psychology contribute to the prevention and treatment of criminal behavior?
What is the relationship between mental health and criminal behavior?
How can criminal profiling be used to aid criminal investigations?
The psychology of white-collar crime
The use of forensic psychology in criminal investigations
The impact of incarceration on mental health
The effectiveness of rehabilitation programs for offenders
The psychology of recidivism

Cognitive Psychology Essay Topics

How do cognitive processes shape our perceptions and decisions?
What are the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive processes such as attention and memory?
How do emotions and motivation affect cognitive processing?
What is the relationship between language and thought?
What is the impact of cognitive biases on decision-making?
The role of cognitive development in learning and education
The impact of technology on cognitive processing
The psychology of creativity and problem-solving
The effects of sleep on cognitive function
The psychology of expertise and skill acquisition

Developmental Psychology Essay Topics

How do genetics and the environment interact to shape development?
What are the stages of cognitive and emotional development in childhood and adolescence?
What is the impact of parenting styles on child development?
How do cultural differences impact child development?
What are the effects of early adversity on later development?
The psychology of attachment and bonding
The impact of technology on child development
The effects of divorce and separation on child development
The psychology of adolescent identity development
The role of play in child development

Abnormal Psychology Essay Topics

The impact of childhood trauma on the development of dissociative disorders
The role of genetics in the development of schizophrenia
The link between eating disorders and body image dissatisfaction
The impact of addiction on mental health
The effectiveness of psychotherapy for treating personality disorders
The relationship between anxiety and depression in bipolar disorder
The impact of trauma on the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder
The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating phobias
The impact of culture on the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness
The effectiveness of mindfulness-based therapies for treating anxiety and depression

Child Psychology Essay Topics

The impact of attachment styles on child development
The role of play therapy in treating childhood trauma
The impact of parenting styles on adolescent mental health
The role of technology in children's social and emotional development
The impact of peer relationships on child development
The effectiveness of early intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder
The impact of divorce on child development
The role of schools in supporting children's mental health
The impact of childhood bullying on mental health in adolescence and adulthood
The effectiveness of family therapy in treating childhood anxiety and depression

Sports Psychology Essay Topics

The role of mental toughness in athletic performance
The impact of anxiety on sports performance
The relationship between goal setting and athletic success
The impact of visualization techniques on sports performance
The role of self-talk in athletic performance
The impact of team cohesion on athletic performance
The relationship between personality traits and sports performance
The impact of pre-performance routines on sports performance
The role of coaching in supporting athletes' mental health
The effectiveness of psychological skills training in improving athletic performance

Argumentative Psychology essay topics

Is intelligence innate or acquired?
Should psychotherapy be used as a first-line treatment for mental illness?
Is the use of medication in treating mental illness over-prescribed?
Is social media use linked to increased rates of anxiety and depression?
Is addiction a disease or a choice?
Should personality disorders be treated differently than other mental illnesses?
Is the use of restraints ethical in mental health treatment?
Is it ethical to use animals in psychological research?
Should parents be held responsible for their children's mental health?
Is there a link between childhood trauma and criminal behavior?

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Descriptive Psychology Essay Topics

The history and evolution of psychoanalytic theory
The role of culture in shaping our understanding of mental illness
The impact of attachment theory on contemporary psychology
The development of cognitive psychology as a discipline
The role of social psychology in understanding human behavior
The impact of behaviorism on modern psychology
The role of neuroscience in understanding mental illness
The development of positive psychology as a field
The impact of feminist psychology on contemporary practice
The role of evolutionary psychology in understanding human behavior

Biological Psychology Essay Topics

The role of genetics in addiction and substance abuse
The impact of hormonal changes on mood disorders
Neural mechanisms underlying decision making
The effect of sleep deprivation on brain function
The link between brain development and mental health disorders
The role of neurotransmitters in regulating emotions and behavior
The impact of stress on the immune system
The relationship between diet and brain function
The biological basis of schizophrenia
The role of epigenetics in mental health disorders

Controversial Psychology Essay Topics

The Ethics of using placebos in clinical trials
The Validity of repressed memories in Therapy
The controversy surrounding conversion therapy
The debate over the existence of multiple personality disorder
The controversy surrounding the use of medication to treat ADHD
The ethics of using animals in psychological research
The controversy surrounding the validity of personality tests
The debate over the use of cognitive enhancement drugs
The controversy surrounding the diagnosis of borderline personality disorder
The debate over the use of hypnosis in therapy

Cultural Psychology Essay Topics

The impact of cultural values on mental health treatment
Cross-cultural differences in emotion regulation
The role of cultural norms in shaping attitudes towards mental health disorders
The impact of acculturation on mental health
The role of cultural values in shaping parenting styles
Cross-cultural differences in attachment styles
The influence of culture on body image and eating disorders
The impact of cultural values on the experience of depression
The role of culture in shaping perceptions of happiness
The impact of cultural diversity on group dynamics

Good Psychology Essay Topics

The importance of social support for mental health
The benefits of mindfulness meditation for stress reduction
The role of exercise in improving mental health
The impact of gratitude on well-being
The role of humor in coping with stress
The benefits of nature exposure for mental health
The impact of social media on mental health and well-being
The benefits of expressive writing for emotional processing
The role of positive self-talk in building resilience
The impact of volunteering on mental health and well-being

Exciting Psychology Essay Topics

The psychology of thrill-seeking behavior
The impact of virtual reality on behavior and cognition
The relationship between music and mood
The psychology of conspiracy theories
The impact of social comparison on self-esteem
The psychology of persuasion and influence
The role of culture in shaping perceptions of beauty
The psychology of color and its effects on behavior
The impact of humor on creativity and problem-solving
The psychology of flow and peak performance

Psychology Essay Topics on Dreams

Why do we dream? The scientific and psychological explanations.
Can we control our dreams? The effectiveness and limitations of lucid dreaming.
The interpretation of dreams: Freudian theory vs. modern approaches.
The role of dreams in problem-solving and creativity.
How dreams impact our mental health and well-being.
The use of dream analysis in therapy: Benefits and limitations.
Nightmares: Causes, effects, and treatments.
The cultural significance of dreams and dream interpretation.
Sleep disorders and their impact on dreaming.
The ethical considerations of using dream manipulation for personal gain.

Psychology-Related Topics from Other Subjects

The intersection of psychology and neuroscience
The relationship between psychology and economics
The psychology of decision making in politics
The psychology of leadership and organizational behavior
The impact of technology on social psychology
The psychology of marketing and consumer behavior
The relationship between psychology and law
The psychology of education and learning
The impact of environmental factors on behavior
The psychology of creativity and innovation

Psychology Paper Topics for Any Assignment

The influence of video games on cognitive development
A case study analysis of borderline personality disorder
The role of cognitive psychology in treating depression
Historical perspectives on the evolution of cognitive psychology
Analyzing the impact of social media on mental health
An exploration of the psychology behind addiction
A comparative analysis of Freudian and Jungian theories of personality
Investigating the effects of mindfulness on anxiety disorders
The role of positive psychology in promoting well-being
A case study on the effects of childhood trauma on adult mental health
Examining the link between physical health and mental health
An overview of various psychological disorders and their treatment options
The role of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety
Analyzing the use of art therapy in treating mental health disorders
The impact of culture on mental health and well-being

How To Choose A Psychology Topic?

Choosing a psychology topic can seem daunting, but there are some helpful steps you can take to make the process easier.

Here are some tips to consider:

Identify Your Interests

Start by considering what topics in psychology interest you the most. Are you fascinated by abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, or social psychology?

By choosing a topic that you are interested in, you are more likely to be motivated to research and write about it.

Consider The Assignment Requirements

If you are choosing a topic for a specific assignment, make sure to read the instructions and guidelines carefully. Consider the length of the assignment, the required sources, and any other specific instructions that the professor may have provided.

Do Some Preliminary Research

Once you have identified your interests and considered the assignment requirements, start doing some preliminary research. Look for articles, books, and other resources on your topic to get a sense of what has already been written about it and to help refine your focus.

Narrow Down Your Topic

After doing some preliminary research, you may need to narrow down your topic. Try to focus on a specific aspect of the broader topic that you are interested in. This will help you to stay focused and write a more cohesive and effective paper.

By following these steps, you can choose a psychology topic that is interesting, manageable and meets the requirements of your assignment.

Tips To Write a Compelling Psychology Essay

Writing a good psychology essay requires attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear writing. Here are some tips to help you write a great psychology essay:

Understand The Essay Prompt

Make sure you fully understand the prompt before you start writing. Identify the key terms and concepts and make sure you have a clear understanding of what is being asked of you.

Conduct Thorough Research

Conduct thorough research using reliable sources such as academic journals, books, and reputable websites. Be sure to take detailed notes and keep track of your sources.

Organize Your Thoughts

Organize your thoughts and ideas before you start the writing process. Create an outline or a mind map to help you structure your essay and ensure your ideas flow logically.

Use Clear, Concise Language

Use clear, concise language to convey your ideas. Avoid using jargon or technical terms unless necessary, and make sure your sentences are well-structured and easy to understand.

Support Your Arguments

Use evidence to support your arguments and claims. This could include citing research studies or other sources to back up your points.

Edit and Proofread

Edit and proofread your psychology research paper to eliminate errors and ensure your writing is polished and professional. Check for grammar and spelling mistakes, and make sure your formatting and referencing are consistent and accurate.

By following these tips, you can write a compelling psychology essay that effectively communicates your ideas and arguments.

In conclusion, choosing a psychology essay topic can be a daunting task. But with the right approach, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Consider your interests, current events, and the audience when selecting a topic. Be sure to conduct thorough research and organize your ideas before writing.

Additionally, keep in mind the tips for writing a compelling essay and crafting a strong thesis statement.

At CollegeEssay.org, we understand that any psychology course can be challenging, especially when you have to write an essay about it.

That's why we offer top essay writing service to help you score good grades.

Our essay writer meets all requirements and exceeds expectations.

Visit CollegeEssay.org to learn more about our psychology essay writing service and how we can assist you in achieving academic success.

Betty P. (Literature)

Betty is a freelance writer and researcher. She has a Masters in literature and enjoys providing writing services to her clients. Betty is an avid reader and loves learning new things. She has provided writing services to clients from all academic levels and related academic fields.

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Research Topics on Sports Psychology

Sports psychology research papers.

Sports psychology research papers are common writing tasks in sports psychology courses.

For a scholar, carrying out these tasks is usually a requirement for graduation.

Note that part of writing the research papers entails finding suitable research topics on sports psychology.

How different are these research papers?

Rightly, sports psychology research papers are just like any other psychology research papers .

Executing such papers demands proficiency in the various steps for writing a research paper .

Before you begin the writing process, it is important to understand what sports psychology entails.

Sports psychology can be defined as:

“A proficiency that employs psychological knowledge and skills to address developmental and sports participation social aspects, athletes’ optimal performance and well-being, and systemic issues arising from sports organizations and settings.”

Based on the above definition, it’s deducible that sports psychology research papers should focus on the psychological aspects of sports development, participation, performance, well-being, organizations, and settings.

These aspects could cover numerous areas related to sports.

Popular Areas of Sports Psychology Research

There are numerous areas where you could look for research topics on sports psychology.

Such areas include:

1. Coaching and Team Dynamics

Coaching and team dynamics is a good area to explore for research topics on sports psychology.

Topics in this area would seek to examine the individual factors that influence an athlete’s performance as well as those that enhance the success of a team.

At the individual level, sports psychology research paper topics would examine factors like training, motivation, training environment, or injury and their impacts on performance.

Topics focusing on the team would study elements such as cohesion within social and task execution environments and their influence on performance.

For example, research topics for sports psychology would examine whether team’s effective interrelations improve performance or team-building strategies.

2. Youth Sports

Youth sports is also a key area to look for research topics on sports psychology.

Sports psychology research papers could investigate the merits and demerits of youth participation in sports.

Such papers could examine different issues, including:

1. Relationship between youth involvement in sports and improvement in social and emotional skills in other life areas.

2. Perfectionism in sports.

3. Impact of parental involvement in sports performance.

4. Issues relating to over-training and burnout.

In your research paper, you could choose to examine different aspects of the above issues.

You as well could study different issues like whether the student athlete should be allowed to directly progress to professional sports or finish attending college first.

3. Elite Performance

Sports psychology research paper topics could also focus on performance among elite athletes.

Topics in this area would seek to investigate the factors that set elite athletes apart, including their ability to cope with the stress and pressure that comes along with a competitive lifestyle.

Some of the issues that research topics for sports psychology could examine include:

1. Maintenance of life-work balance among elite athletes.

2. Management of transitions by elite athletes.

3. How elite athletes prepare for competitions.

4. Appropriate motivational environment for teams.

5. Role of mental strength in elite sports.

All the above examples of areas to research on in sports psychology could be examined in different ways and within distinctive parameters.

4. Personality and Motivation

Personality and motivation is another area to look for research topics on sports psychology.

Topics in this area would focus on identifying the ideal conditions necessary for optional performance in sports.

It would therefore examine areas such as:

1. Self-esteem.

2. Mental toughness.

3. Perfectionism.

4. Confidence.

5. Motivation.

From these areas, you can come up with sports psychology research paper topics related to different personality and motivation issues.

Examples of such topics may include:

1. Role of visualization strategies on improving skills and reducing performance anxiety.

2. Relationship between performance and motivation in athletes motivated by improvement desire and those motivated by winning desire.

3. Strategies for curbing distractions during competitions.

Research Topics on Sports Psychology

As noted above, research topics for sports psychology could be derived from a number of areas.

From these areas, you could derive complex research topics for papers such as dissertations/ theses or topics for basic papers like a 10-page research paper .

These topics are as listed below.

Examples of Complex Topics

1. Role of intrinsic motivation in sports performance (include a specific sport, e.g. tennis).

2. How to maintain a good psychological state when participating in sporting activities.

3. Strategies for developing self-motivation among elite athletes.

4. Changes in team sport dynamics over the last two decades and predictable future trends.

5. Relationship between self-confidence and performance in sports (could examine a case of high confidence in javelin or gymnastics).

6. Sports psychology and its roles in enhancing performance among elite athletes.

7. Role of coaching in the development of self-confidence among elite athletes.

8. Economic impact of seasonal sports activities like World Cup on host countries/ cities.

9. Impact of scores rating on the confidence of elite athletes.

10. Promotion of physical activities among low socio-economic groups with poor health status.

11. Strategies for enhancing performance among elite athletes (could examine a particular sport like basketball).

12. Role of psychological tests in determining coping capacity among athletes, e.g. in relation to violence and drug abuse.

13. Relationship between practice and performance in sports.

14. Future of sports safety considering the current challenges and emerging research findings.

15. Factors that affect performance in sports (could study a specific sports, e.g. ice hockey).

16. Challenges facing new coaches and their impact on players’ performance.

17. Role of teamwork on the performance of a team.

18. Impacts of a good psychological state on performance in sports.

19. Evolution of sports psychology for the last 20 years and its predictable future.

20. Impact of physical activity on the management of mental health issues like stress.

Common Research Paper Topics

1. Development of ice hockey as a sport for the last 20 years.

2. Use of time records as a motivation among athletes.

3. State/ place of women in sports in the modern society.

4. Impact of running on an athlete’s body.

5. Emergence of the modern sports celebrity status.

6. History of a successful athlete (e.g. Pele, Michael Phelps, or Novak Djokovic).

7. Barriers that suppress popularity of women’s sports.

8. Impact of running shoes on an athlete’s performance.

9. History of American football in the US.

10. Role of genetics in an athlete’s performance in different sports.

11. Disparities in pay among female and male athletes.

12. Impact of track conditions on a runner’s performance.

13. Impact of sports investment on the economic development of cities and countries.

14. Role of sports in curbing obesity as a lifestyle disease.

15. Lack of women coaching staff in men teams.

16. Impact of legal stimulants like coffee on an athlete’s performance.

17. Evolution of Olympics management and its impact on sports.

18. Heart conditions as a cause of fatality in sports.

19. Status of transgender athletes in modern sports.

20. Impact on sports on the improvement of the heart’s condition.

21. Advancements in Paralympics for the last two decades.

22. Functioning of the respiratory system among elite athletes.

23. Impact of hormonal changes on female athletes.

24. Role of fitness coach in enhancing the physical capacity of athletes.

25. Common injuries weightlifting athletes are exposed to.

26. Impact of social factors on sports performance in low-income areas.

27. Treatment and rehabilitation approaches in anterior cruciate ligament injuries.

28. Impacts of anxiety on performance among athletes.

29. Expression of aggression among boxing athletes.

30. Impact of body image on self-esteem among female gymnasts.

31. Emerging technologies in vertebral-spinal injuries rehabilitation.

32. Role of individual identity in team sports like basketball.

33. Self-regulation and motivation among young football athletes.

34. Importance of resilience in enhancing performance in sports.

35. Injury level in ice-hockey and their prevention.

36. Relationship between burnout and depression among athletes.

37. Child upbringing approaches among professional athletes’ families.

38. Impact of high sports performance expectations on high school students.

39. Sports injuries treatment approaches in children and their effectiveness.

40. Role of personal coaches in enhancing personal aptitude in sports.

41. Mental aspects of doping in athletics.

42. Impact of sports on personal identity among youths.

43. Types of trauma suffered by young male volleyball players.

44. Emotional attachment between athletes and their coaches.

45. Aspects of psychological trauma recovery among young athletes.

46. Institutional support in team sports.

47. Effectiveness of mouth guards in boxing and wrestling.

48. Effects of retirement on athletes in highly competitive sports.

49. Mental state and concentration in sports that require focus, e.g. shooting.

50. Role of cultural background in sports choices.

51. Gender issues in the modern sports environment.

52. Role of leadership in team sports performance.

53. Required nutritional content for teenage athletes.

54. Place of personality in dealing with sports-related stress.

55. Role of diet in injury rehabilitation among older athletes.

56. Self-discipline and practice standards among athletes.

57. Elements of individualized diets for athletes.

58. Role of sport injuries education in performance among athletes.

59. Place of nutritional supplements among athletes.

60. Aspects of rehabilitation services among athletes.

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Essays on Sports Psychology

1 sample on this topic

Writing piles of Sports Psychology papers is an immanent part of modern studying, be it in high-school, college, or university. If you can do that unassisted, that's just awesome; yet, other learners might not be that skilled, as Sports Psychology writing can be quite troublesome. The collection of free sample Sports Psychology papers exhibited below was compiled in order to help lagging students rise up to the challenge.

On the one hand, Sports Psychology essays we publish here precisely demonstrate how a really well-written academic piece of writing should be developed. On the other hand, upon your demand and for a fair cost, a professional essay helper with the relevant academic experience can put together a high-quality paper example on Sports Psychology from scratch.

250 Sports Topics: Persuasive Speech Ideas and Titles

Sports, as a universal language, encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including team sports like football and basketball, individual sports such as tennis and swimming, adventure sports like rock climbing and surfing, as well as winter sports, including skiing and ice hockey. The realm of sports topics extends far beyond mere celebration of victories or analysis of defeats; it delves into the understanding of human endeavor, resilience, teamwork, and individual brilliance. These topics offer a rich vein of content for persuasive speeches and essays, appealing to both emotions and reason, and urging audiences to consider deeper societal issues, health, education, and personal growth.

Writing about sports topics provides an opportunity to explore the impact of sports on society and the individual. It's not just about the physical aspects but also about the psychological and social benefits. Sports debate topics often highlight the role of sports in promoting mental health, fostering community spirit, and encouraging a healthy lifestyle. They can also address controversies, such as doping, corruption, and the commercialization of sports, providing a platform for critical thinking and discussion.

The richness of sports as a subject matter offers endless opportunities to weave together narratives of challenge, triumph, and transformation, making essays on sports not just informative but also profoundly inspiring.

How to Choose a Good Topic on Sports

Choosing a compelling sports topic necessitates a nuanced understanding of your audience's preferences, alongside an assessment of the topic's current relevance and its capacity to incite meaningful debate or persuade effectively. It's crucial to identify subjects that not only resonate on a deeply personal level with your audience but also intersect with broader thematic elements such as ethics, advancements in technology, and the various socio-economic factors that influence the realm of sports. This balanced approach ensures the topic's universal appeal and its ability to engage a diverse readership. Particularly, the convergence of sports with pressing societal issues—like providing resources for low-income college students—opens up a rich avenue for discussion that transcends mere sports commentary. It invites a more profound exploration of how sports can serve as a microcosm for larger societal dynamics, offering insights into equity, accessibility, and the transformative power of sports as a tool for social change. In this article, we delve into 250 varied sports persuasive speech topics and sports argumentative essay topics, each carefully selected to spark interest and drive discourse across different aspects of sports, from team-based dynamics and individual feats to the broader social impact of sporting activities. Whether you're crafting an argumentative essay that tackles the ethical dilemmas in sports or preparing a persuasive speech that advocates for more inclusive policies in sports programs, these topics are designed to bolster your arguments with a rich mix of insights and perspectives.

The Best 10 Sports Topics to Write About in 2024

In 2024, sports writing is evolving, focusing on topics that blend traditional interests with pressing social issues. Consider exploring:

The impact of technology on fair play in sports.
Mental health awareness among professional athletes.
The role of sports in bridging socio-economic divides.
Gender equality in sports: Progress and challenges.
The influence of sports scholarships on low-income students.
The environmental footprint of major sporting events.
The rise of e-sports and its recognition as a legitimate sport.
The importance of sports in fostering global peace and understanding.
Ethical considerations in sports sponsorships and advertising.
The future of sports in a post-pandemic world.

Interesting Sports Debate Topics

When it comes to stimulating discussions and engaging audiences, few subjects can match the dynamism of sports debate topics. This section not only explores the competitive spirit and strategic intricacies inherent in various sports but also delves into how these activities intersect with larger societal questions, ethics, and personal development. By addressing these topics, speakers and writers can challenge perceptions, encourage critical thinking, and foster a deeper appreciation for the impact of sports on individuals and society alike. Below are 10 thought-provoking topics that cover a range of issues, from the moral obligations of athletes and fans to the economic and environmental considerations of hosting large-scale sporting events.

Should performance-enhancing drugs be legalized in professional sports under medical supervision?
The role of sports in promoting global peace and understanding: Idealistic or achievable?
Is the commercialization of sports eroding its true essence and spirit?
The impact of technology on traditional sports: Evolution or dilution?
Gender equality in sports: How far have we really come?
The ethics of using animals in sports competitions.
Should esports be recognized and respected as traditional sports?
The influence of media on public perception of athletes and sports.
Mandatory retirement ages for professional athletes: For or against?
Are the psychological pressures on young athletes justified by potential career rewards?

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics on Team Sports

When exploring persuasive speech topics sports, the emphasis on team sports opens a wide avenue for discussions that transcend mere game strategies or win-loss records. Delving into the realm of team sports, we unlock a vast potential for persuasive discourse, aiming to influence opinions, stir emotions, and inspire action on various aspects of sportsmanship, teamwork, and the societal impact of sports.

Volleyball Sports Research Topics

The Evolution of Volleyball: From Origins to Olympic Glory
Analyzing the Impact of Modern Training Techniques on Volleyball Performance
Volleyball Injury Prevention Strategies: A Comprehensive Review
The Role of Team Dynamics and Communication in Volleyball Success
Gender Equality in Volleyball: Progress and Challenges
The Influence of Technology on Volleyball Coaching and Performance Analysis
Mental Toughness in Volleyball: Developing Resilience among Athletes
The Economic Impact of Professional Volleyball Leagues Worldwide
Volleyball and Youth Development: Lessons Beyond the Court
The Future of Beach Volleyball: Growth, Trends, and Sustainability

Football Sports Argumentative Topics

Should College Football Players Be Paid for Their Performance?
The Impact of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) Technology: Fairness vs. Flow of the Game
The Role of National Identity in International Football Competitions
Tackling Racial Discrimination: Is Football Doing Enough?
The Ethics of Transfers and Loans in Professional Football
Concussions in Football: Are Safety Measures Sufficient?
The Commercialization of Football: Beneficial Evolution or Detrimental to the Sport's Essence?
Should FIFA Implement Stricter Regulations to Combat Match Fixing?
The Influence of Fan Culture on Football Team Performance
Youth Development in Football: Is the Current System Benefiting Young Talents?

Baseball Persuasive Speech Topics

The Case for Implementing Instant Replay Reviews in Baseball
Why Baseball Needs to Address Its Pace of Play to Attract Younger Audiences
The Importance of Preserving Historic Baseball Stadiums for Future Generations
Enhancing Safety Measures in Baseball to Prevent Injuries from Foul Balls
The Role of Analytics in Baseball: Revolutionizing the Game or Diminishing Tradition?
Advocating for More International Representation in Major League Baseball
The Economic Impact of Minor League Baseball Teams on Local Communities
The Need for Stricter Performance-Enhancing Drug Policies in Baseball
Encouraging Youth Participation in Baseball to Foster a Love for the Game
Making the Case for Increasing the Visibility and Support of Women's Baseball

Basketball Argumentative Essay Topics

The Effectiveness of the NBA's One-and-Done Rule: A Boon or Bane for Young Athletes?
Gender Disparity in Basketball: Addressing Wage and Media Coverage Gaps
Should the NBA Implement Stricter Policies on Player Rest Days to Prevent Injuries?
The Impact of Social Media on Professional Basketball Players' Mental Health
College Basketball vs. Overseas Professional Leagues: The Best Path for Emerging Talents
The Role of Analytics in Basketball: Enhancing the Game or Diminishing Human Elements?
The Influence of Shoe Companies on Amateur and Professional Basketball
Basketball and Education: Balancing Athletics and Academics in College Sports
The Case for and Against Expanding the NBA Playoffs
Addressing Age Limits in Professional Basketball: Protecting Young Players or Restricting Opportunities?

Ice Hockey Persuasive Speech Topics

The Importance of Implementing More Stringent Concussion Protocols in Ice Hockey
Why Ice Hockey Needs to Expand its Reach Beyond Traditional Markets
The Role of Fighting in Ice Hockey: Tradition vs. Player Safety
Encouraging Diversity and Inclusion in the Predominantly White Sport of Ice Hockey
The Economic Benefits of Hosting Major Ice Hockey Tournaments for Local Communities
Implementing Greener Practices in Ice Hockey Arenas to Combat Climate Change
The Impact of Youth Ice Hockey Programs on Community Development
Addressing the Gender Gap: Promoting Women's Ice Hockey on a Global Scale
The Need for Better Mental Health Resources for Ice Hockey Players
Persuading Governments to Increase Funding for Ice Hockey Facilities in Underprivileged Areas

Cheerleading Persuasive Speech Topics

Recognizing Cheerleading as a Sport: The Case for Official Recognition and Funding
The Importance of Implementing Strict Safety Standards in Cheerleading
Cheerleading: Beyond Pom-Poms and Smiles - Advocating for Athletic Respect
The Role of Cheerleading in Promoting Team Spirit and School Morale
Addressing Gender Stereotypes in Cheerleading: Breaking Down Barriers
The Psychological Benefits of Cheerleading: Building Confidence and Teamwork
The Need for Professional Development and Training Programs for Cheer Coaches
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion Within Cheerleading Squads
Advocating for Competitive Cheerleading to Be Included in the Olympic Games
The Importance of Scholarships for Cheerleaders in Higher Education Institutions

Argumentative Essay Topics on Individual Sport

When we delve into the realm of individual sports, we're not just talking about the physical prowess required to excel solo; we're exploring a universe brimming with rich, complex topics ripe for argumentative essays. The focus on individual athletes shifts the discourse towards intense scrutiny of personal ethics, training methodologies, mental health, and the broader socio-economic impacts of their sporting endeavors. In this section, we tackle sports argumentative essay topics that provoke thought, challenge preconceived notions, and invite readers to reconsider their perspectives on what it means to compete and succeed in the arena of individual sports. Here, argumentative essay topics about sports transcend the mere spectacle of competition, engaging with the intricate weave of personal achievement against the backdrop of global sporting culture.

Sports Argumentative Topics on Swimming

Should High Schools and Colleges Prioritize Funding for Competitive Swimming Programs?
The Ethics of Technological Swimsuits: Enhancing Performance or Undermining Talent?
Mandatory Water Safety and Swimming Lessons in Schools: A Necessity or Overreach?
The Impact of Early Specialization in Competitive Swimming on Athlete Burnout
Gender Equality in Competitive Swimming: Are We Doing Enough?
The Role of International Bodies in Combatting Doping in Professional Swimming
Accessibility of Competitive Swimming Training for Low-Income Families
The Psychological Impact of Competitive Swimming on Young Athletes
Should Transgender Athletes Compete in Gendered Swimming Competitions?
The Environmental Impact of Maintaining Large Swimming Facilities for Competitive Events

Sports Argumentative Topics on Ski

The Responsibility of Ski Resorts in Promoting Environmental Sustainability
Helmet Laws in Skiing: Necessary Safety Measure or Personal Choice?
The Economic Impact of Ski Tourism on Local Communities: Boon or Bane?
The Influence of Climate Change on the Future of Competitive Skiing
Should Skiing Equipment Be Standardized for All Professional Competitions?
The Role of Artificial Snow in Ski Competitions: Ethical Considerations
Accessibility and Inclusion: Making Skiing a Sport for Everyone
The Debate Over Land Use for Ski Resorts vs. Conservation Efforts
Enhancing Safety Measures for Ski Jumping: How Far Should Regulations Go?
The Impact of Professional Skiing on Youth Participation and Interest in the Sport

Sports Argumentative Topics on Boxing

The Ethical Dilemma of Brain Injuries in Boxing: Is the Sport Worth the Risk?
Should There Be an Age Limit for Professional Boxers?
The Role of Weight Classes in Boxing: Fair Competition or Unnecessary Limitation?
The Influence of Media and Promotion in Shaping Boxing Careers
Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Boxing: Can the Sport Ever Be Clean?
The Impact of Boxing on Youth: Violence Promotion or Discipline Building?
The Future of Women’s Boxing: Breaking Barriers and Challenging Stereotypes
Should Boxing Be Banned or Further Regulated for Safety?
The Role of Technology in Training and Judging Boxing Matches
The Economic Divide: Does Boxing Favor the Wealthy in Terms of Training and Opportunities?

Sports Argumentative Topics on Track and Field

The Use of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Track and Field: A Losing Battle?
The Impact of High-Tech Equipment on Fairness in Track and Field Competitions
Gender Equality in Track and Field: Are Prize Money and Opportunities Equal?
The Role of Genetic Engineering: Will Designer Athletes Dominate Track and Field?
The Ethics of Age Limits in Professional Track and Field Competitions
The Effectiveness of Lifetime Bans for Doping in Track and Field
The Importance of Amateur Track and Field Programs in Schools
The Debate Over Transgender Athletes in Track and Field Competitions
Climate Change and Outdoor Track and Field Events: Adapting to a New Reality
The Legacy of Track and Field Icons: Role Models or Unattainable Standards?

Taekwondo Sports Argumentative Topics

The Effectiveness of Taekwondo as a Means of Self-Defense
The Impact of Olympic Inclusion on Taekwondo’s Popularity and Development
Gender Stereotypes in Taekwondo: Breaking Down Barriers
The Importance of Mental Discipline in Taekwondo Training
The Role of Taekwondo in Promoting International Peace and Understanding
The Debate Over Scoring Systems in Competitive Taekwondo
The Balance Between Tradition and Modernization in Taekwondo Practice
The Need for More Stringent Concussion Protocols in Taekwondo
Taekwondo for All Ages: Benefits and Limitations
The Future of Taekwondo: Technology Integration in Training and Competitions

Yoga Sports Argumentative Topics

Yoga as Sport vs. Spiritual Practice: Losing Its Essence?
The Commercialization of Yoga: Beneficial or Detrimental?
The Role of Yoga in Athletes’ Mental and Physical Health
The Standardization of Yoga Practices: Necessary or Restrictive?
The Cultural Appropriation of Yoga: Respect or Exploitation?
Yoga Certification: Ensuring Quality or Creating Exclusivity?
The Impact of Online Yoga Classes on Traditional Studios
The Inclusion of Yoga in School Physical Education Programs
Addressing the Lack of Diversity in the Yoga Community
The Potential for Competitive Yoga: How Would It Work?

Gym Sports Argumentative Topics

The Role of Gyms in Promoting Public Health: Luxury or Necessity?
The Debate Over Bodybuilding: Healthy Lifestyle or Obsessive Culture?
The Impact of Social Media on Gym Culture: Inspiration or Intimidation?
Should Gyms Be Required to Have Staff Trained in Mental Health First Aid?
The Effectiveness of Personal Trainers: Worth the Investment?
The Rise of Home Gyms: The End of Traditional Gyms?
Gym Membership Fees: Accessibility vs. Quality of Service
The Importance of Creating Inclusive Gym Environments for All Body Types
The Safety of Dietary Supplements Sold in Gyms
The Future of Fitness: Technology’s Role in Personalized Gym Experiences

Running Sports Argumentative Topics

The Ethics of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Professional Running.
Should Ultra-Marathon Races Have More Stringent Health and Safety Regulations?
The Impact of High-Tech Running Shoes on Competition Fairness.
The Role of Running in Public Health Campaigns Against Obesity.
Addressing the Gender Gap in Sponsorship and Media Coverage of Running Events.
The Influence of Amateur Running Clubs on Professional Running.
Should Cross-Country Running Be Included in the Olympic Games?
The Debate Over Age Limits for Participation in Marathon Races.
The Environmental Impact of Large-Scale Running Events and Marathons.
The Effectiveness of Virtual Running Competitions: A Pandemic Legacy.

Golf Sports Argumentative Topics

The Exclusivity of Golf Clubs: Elitism vs. Tradition.
Environmental Concerns: Should Golf Courses Be More Eco-Friendly?
Gender Equality in Golf: Addressing the Pay Gap and Tournament Opportunities.
The Role of Technology in Golf: Enhancing the Game or Diminishing Skill?
Should Golf Be Considered a Physically Demanding Sport?
The Impact of Golf Tourism on Local Economies and Environments.
The Debate Over Slow Play in Golf and Its Impact on the Sport's Popularity.
Youth Participation in Golf: Declining Interest and Potential Solutions.
The Future of Golf: Adapting to Changing Demographics and Preferences.
Golf in the Olympics: Does It Belong?

Badminton Sports Argumentative Topics

The Global Recognition of Badminton: Is It Undervalued as a Sport?
Addressing the Dominance of Asian Countries in International Badminton.
The Role of Technology in Badminton Equipment: Fair Advantage or Not?
Should Badminton Focus More on Expanding Its Reach to Western Countries?
The Impact of Coaching Styles on Badminton Players' Performance.
Gender Disparities in Badminton: Evaluating Equality in Prize Money and Coverage.
The Potential of Badminton to Improve Physical Health Among the Elderly.
The Influence of Shuttlecock Quality on Game Fairness.
The Importance of Grassroots Programs in the Development of Elite Badminton Players.
The Effectiveness of the Current Scoring System in Professional Badminton.

Tennis Sports Argumentative Topics

The Debate Over Equal Prize Money for Men and Women in Tennis.
The Impact of Youth Tennis Academies on the Sport’s Future Stars.
Should Tennis Tournaments Reduce the Number of Sets to Prevent Injuries?
The Role of Mental Health Support for Professional Tennis Players.
The Evolution of Tennis Equipment: Keeping the Essence of the Game Intact.
Addressing the Climate Impact of International Tennis Tours.
The Influence of Wild Card Entries on the Fairness of Tennis Tournaments.
The Effectiveness of Anti-Doping Measures in Professional Tennis.
The Future of Davis Cup and Fed Cup: Preserving Tennis Traditions vs. Modernization.
The Impact of Player Behavior and Sportsmanship on the Public Perception of Tennis.

Wrestling Sports Argumentative Topics

The Ethical Considerations of Weight Cutting Practices in Wrestling.
Should Professional Wrestling Be Recognized as an Olympic Sport?
The Role of High School Wrestling in Promoting Discipline and Physical Fitness.
Addressing the Risk of Concussions and Chronic Injuries in Wrestling.
The Representation of Women in Wrestling: Progress and Challenges.
The Influence of Media and Entertainment on Amateur Wrestling.
The Importance of Strict Anti-Doping Regulations in Wrestling Competitions.
The Debate Over the Use of Protective Gear in Wrestling.
The Cultural Significance of Wrestling in Different Societies.
The Future of Wrestling: Balancing Tradition with Innovation.

Adventure/Extreme Sports: Argumentative Essay Topics

The world of adventure and extreme sports brings to the forefront a plethora of engaging and contentious issues, ripe for exploration through argumentative essays and persuasive speeches. As participants push the boundaries of human capability and endurance, the debates surrounding these activities offer a unique lens through which we examine questions of safety, ethics, environmental impact, and the very nature of sport itself. This section delves into debate persuasive speech topics about sports and sports argumentative essay topics, specifically tailored to the adrenaline-fueled realm of extreme sports. Here, we challenge readers and speakers alike to confront their perceptions of risk, reward, and responsibility in the context of sports that defy conventional boundaries and provoke intense discussion.

Skydiving Argumentative Essay Topics

The Ethics of Commercializing Extreme Sports: A Case Study of Skydiving.
Should Age Restrictions for Skydiving Be More Stringent?
The Role of Government Regulation in Ensuring Skydiving Safety.
Skydiving and Mental Health: The Therapeutic Benefits vs. Risks.
The Environmental Impact of Skydiving: Are We Ignoring the Carbon Footprint?
The Debate Over Mandatory Insurance for Skydivers: Who Should Bear the Cost?
Can Virtual Reality Skydiving Adequately Replace the Real Experience?
The Impact of Social Media on Skydiving: Encouraging Recklessness or Promoting Safety?
Should Skydiving be Included in Olympic Games as a New Extreme Sport?
Addressing the Gender Gap in Skydiving: Barriers and Opportunities for Female Skydivers.

Surfing Argumentative Essay Topics

Balancing Local Culture and Global Surfing Competitions: Preservation vs. Progress.
The Impact of Surfing on Coastal Ecosystems: Sustainable Sport or Environmental Hazard?
Should Surfing Spots Be Regulated to Prevent Overcrowding?
The Commercialization of Surfing: Losing Its Soul to Sponsorships and Media.
The Role of Artificial Wave Pools in Surfing: Innovation or Detraction from Authenticity?
Addressing the Gender Disparity in Professional Surfing: Equality in the Water.
The Influence of Surfing on Mental Health: A Deep Dive into Its Therapeutic Benefits.
The Debate Over Surfing Etiquette: Unwritten Laws vs. Formal Regulation.
Surfing in the Olympics: Does It Enhance or Diminish the Sport's Rebel Spirit?
The Future of Surfing: Navigating the Challenges of Climate Change and Rising Sea Levels.

Winter Sports: Topics to Write About

Winter sports, with their unique blend of thrill, tradition, and environmental reliance, serve as a fascinating backdrop for a rich array of argumentative essays. The icy realms of skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, and more, are not just playgrounds for athletic prowess but also arenas for heated debates on topics ranging from climate change impacts to technological advancements and ethical considerations in competitive settings. This section explores sports argumentative essay topics and argumentative essay topics about sports, specifically zooming in on the challenges, controversies, and cultural significance of winter sports. As we lace up our boots and set out on this exploratory journey, we invite discussions that scrutinize the multifaceted aspects of these chilly pursuits, from argumentative essay topics sports that question the sustainability of snow-based activities to the socio-economic barriers that may limit access to these exhilarating but often exclusive sports.

Argumentative Sports Topics on Ski

The Ethical Implications of Artificial Snow in Competitive Skiing.
Climate Change and Its Impact on Traditional Ski Resorts: Adaptation Strategies.
The Safety of Backcountry Skiing: Necessary Risks or Reckless Endeavors?
Gender Equality in Skiing Competitions: Progress and Challenges.
The Influence of Skiing on Local Economies: A Blessing or a Curse?
The Role of Technology in Enhancing Ski Performance and Safety.
The Debate on Age Limits for Professional Skiing: Protecting Young Athletes.
The Environmental Footprint of Ski Tourism: Finding Sustainable Solutions.
Skiing and Cultural Appropriation: Respecting Indigenous Lands and Traditions.
Mandatory Helmet Laws in Skiing: Safety Precaution or Personal Choice?

Argumentative Sports Topics on Ice Skating

Judging Bias in Competitive Ice Skating: The Need for Transparency and Fairness.
The Role of Ice Skating in Promoting Physical Fitness Among Youth.
The Impact of Climate Change on Outdoor Ice Skating Venues.
Addressing the High Costs of Competitive Ice Skating: Barriers to Entry.
The Psychological Pressure on Young Ice Skaters: Navigating Mental Health.
Should Ice Skating Moves With High Injury Risks Be Banned?
The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion in Ice Skating.
The Evolution of Ice Skates: Technology vs. Tradition.
The Future of Synthetic Ice Rinks: Pros and Cons.
Ice Skating and Education: Balancing Academics and Athletic Training.

Argumentative Sports Topics on Ice Hockey

The Necessity of Fighting in Ice Hockey: Tradition vs. Player Safety.
Addressing Concussion Issues in Ice Hockey: Are Current Protocols Sufficient?
The Role of Women's Ice Hockey in Promoting Gender Equality in Sports.
Climate Change: The Future of Outdoor Ice Hockey Games.
The Economic Impact of Professional Ice Hockey Teams on Local Communities.
Youth Ice Hockey: Preventing Injuries and Promoting Safe Play.
The Debate Over the Use of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Ice Hockey.
Enhancing Diversity in Ice Hockey: Strategies for Inclusivity.
The Impact of Technology on Refereeing in Ice Hockey.
The Tradition of College Ice Hockey: Balancing Sport and Academics.

Reflecting on the Wide World of Sports Topics

As we cross the finish line of our exploration into the diverse and dynamic world of sports topics, it's clear that the realm of athletics offers far more than just games and competitions. From the heated debates stirred by sports argumentative essay topics to the compelling narratives that fuel sports persuasive speech topics, sports serve as a mirror reflecting societal values, challenges, and aspirations. Whether dissecting the ethical implications of performance-enhancing drugs, advocating for gender equality on the playing field, or exploring the impact of technology on traditional sports, the discussions we've engaged in underscore the profound influence sports have on culture, education, and personal development. As athletes continue to push the boundaries of human potential, and fans deepen their engagement with these pursuits, the topics we've covered offer a starting point for deeper inquiry and debate. In the world of sports, every game, match, or race tells a story, and every story invites us to consider broader questions about what it means to strive, to compete, and to be part of a community bound by shared passions and pursuits.

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90+ SEHS Extended Essay Topic Ideas for IB

Table of contents

Writing Metier

You’re in the right place if you’re passionate about sports, exercise, and health science. We’ve compiled a fantastic selection of SEHS extended essay topics to inspire your research. From exploring the science behind athletic performance to tackling social and ethical issues in sports, we’ve got you covered.

I’ll break this list of IB SEHS EE topics into ten various categories. Therefore, it will be easier for you to navigate this article.

Here are the categories we will be covering:

Exercise Physiology

Cardiovascular System : Investigating the effects of exercise on heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac output.
Respiratory System : Examining the impact of different types of exercise on lung capacity, ventilation rate, and oxygen uptake.
Muscular System : Analyzing the physiological responses of muscles to various training regimens and their impact on strength, endurance, and recovery.

Sports Psychology

Motivation : Exploring the factors that influence motivation in athletes and their impact on performance.
Anxiety and Stress Management : Investigating the strategies used by athletes to manage anxiety and stress before and during competitions.
Team Dynamics : Examining the role of team cohesion, communication, and leadership in sports performance.

Biomechanics

Movement Analysis : Studying the biomechanics of specific movements in sports, such as running, jumping, or throwing.
Injury Prevention : Investigating the biomechanical factors that contribute to sports injuries and the effectiveness of preventive measures.
Equipment Design : Analyzing the impact of equipment design, such as footwear or protective gear, on athletic performance and safety.

Nutrition and Sports Performance

Dietary Supplements : Evaluating the effects of dietary supplements, such as protein powders or creatine, on athletic performance.
Hydration : Investigating the importance of hydration in sports performance and the best strategies for maintaining fluid balance.
Energy Systems : Exploring the role of different energy systems (aerobic, anaerobic) in sports performance and the impact of nutrition on their efficiency.

Training and Conditioning

Periodization : Examining the effectiveness of periodization training programs in enhancing sports performance.
Strength and Conditioning : Investigating the impact of strength and conditioning programs on athletic performance and injury prevention.
Flexibility Training : Analyzing the role of flexibility training in sports performance and injury prevention.

Sports Injury and Rehabilitation

Concussions : Studying the prevalence, diagnosis, and management of concussions in contact sports.
Overuse Injuries : Investigating the causes and prevention of overuse injuries in athletes.
Rehabilitation Techniques : Evaluating the effectiveness of various rehabilitation techniques in the recovery of sports injuries.

Ethical and Social Issues in Sports

Doping : Examining the ethical implications and health risks of doping in sports.
Gender Equality : Investigating the challenges and progress in achieving gender equality in sports.
Youth Sports : Exploring the impact of early specialization and competitive pressure on young athletes.

Sports Technology and Innovation

Wearable Technology : Investigating the impact of wearable technology, such as fitness trackers and smartwatches, on athletes’ training and performance.
Video Analysis : Examining the role of video analysis in improving technique and strategy in sports.
Biometric Monitoring : Analyzing the use of biometric monitoring systems in assessing athlete health and performance.

Environmental Factors in Sports

Altitude Training : Exploring the physiological effects of altitude training on athletes’ endurance and performance.
Temperature and Climate : Investigating the impact of temperature and climate conditions on sports performance and safety.
Air Pollution : Examining the effects of air pollution on athletes’ respiratory health and performance.

Psychological Well-being in Sports

Mindfulness and Meditation : Investigating the effects of mindfulness and meditation practices on athletes’ mental health and performance.
Body Image and Self-esteem : Exploring the relationship between body image, self-esteem, and performance in athletes.
Coping with Retirement : Analyzing the psychological challenges faced by athletes during the transition to retirement and effective coping strategies.

So, whether you’re into biomechanics, nutrition, or sports psychology, get ready to dive into some exciting research that could take your understanding of SEHS to the next level! And if you need academic writing assistance – Writing Metier is here to help you.

IB SEHS EE Topic Ideas

Finally! Here are three topics and research questions for each subcategory in IB Sports, Exercise, and Health Science. They are designed to meet the IB Extended Essay criteria and are still quite researchable and “data-friendly” if you know what I mean 😉

Let’s kick things off with Exercise Physiology, where we’ll explore how our bodies respond to physical activity. From understanding how our muscles and cardiovascular system adapt to exercise, this section is all about the science behind fitness and performance.

Cardiovascular System

Research Question: How does HIIT influence cardiovascular health markers, such as heart rate variability and blood pressure, in adolescents?
Research Question: How does a 12-week endurance training program affect the resting heart rate of amateur athletes?
Research Question: What cardiovascular adaptations occur in female athletes as a result of long-distance running training?

Respiratory System

Research Question: How do different breathing techniques impact respiratory efficiency and performance in competitive swimmers?
Research Question: How does exposure to urban air pollution affect respiratory function and exercise capacity in cyclists?
Research Question: How does respiratory muscle training influence VO2 max and endurance performance in competitive rowers?

Muscular System

Research Question: How does muscle fiber type distribution differ between elite powerlifters and marathon runners?
Research Question: How does creatine supplementation affect muscle strength and recovery time in resistance-trained athletes?
Research Question: How does eccentric resistance training influence muscle hypertrophy and strength compared to concentric training?

Here, we’ll dive into the mental aspects of sports . We’ll look at what motivates athletes, how they handle stress, and the dynamics of teamwork. It’s all about getting into the right mindset for peak performance.

Research Question: How does goal setting influence motivation levels and performance outcomes in young athletes?
Research Question: How do intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors affect the performance of collegiate basketball players?
Research Question: How do coach-athlete relationships influence the motivation and performance of high school athletes?

Anxiety and Stress Management

Research Question: How effective are mindfulness-based interventions in reducing competitive anxiety in elite athletes?
Research Question: How do different stress management techniques affect the performance and anxiety levels of competitive tennis players?
Research Question: How do pre-competition routines influence anxiety levels and performance in competitive gymnasts?

Team Dynamics

Research Question: How does team cohesion affect the performance and success of youth soccer teams?
Research Question: How do different leadership styles of coaches affect team dynamics and performance in collegiate volleyball teams?
Research Question: How do communication patterns and conflict resolution strategies impact team effectiveness in professional sports teams?

In Biomechanics, we’re going to investigate the mechanics of movement in sports. We’ll analyze how athletes move, how they can prevent injuries, and how equipment design plays a role in their performance. Get ready to see sports from a whole new angle!

Movement Analysis

Research Question: How do high-bar and low-bar squat techniques differ in terms of biomechanical variables and muscle activation?
Research Question: What are the key kinematic differences in the tennis serve between players with and without shoulder injuries?
Research Question: How does different types of footwear affect the gait patterns and injury risk in long-distance runners?

Injury Prevention

Research Question: How do core stability exercises influence the incidence of lower back injuries in competitive gymnasts?
Research Question: How effective are neuromuscular training programs in reducing the incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in female athletes?
Topic: The Impact of Hamstring Stretching on Injury Prevention in Sprinters
Research Question: How does a regular hamstring stretching regimen affect the injury rates in competitive sprinters?

Equipment Design

Research Question: How does running shoe design, including cushioning and heel-to-toe drop, impact injury rates and running performance?
Research Question: How do custom orthotics influence the biomechanical parameters and injury risk in athletes with flat feet?
Research Question: How do different helmet designs affect the risk of concussions in American football players?

Next up is Nutrition and Sports Performance. We’ll be looking at how what we eat impacts our energy, recovery, and overall athletic performance. From supplements to hydration, this section covers the fuel behind the athletes.

Dietary Supplements

Research Question: How does beta-alanine supplementation impact endurance performance and fatigue resistance in cyclists?
Research Question: How does whey protein supplementation affect muscle recovery and hypertrophy in strength-trained individuals?
Research Question: How does omega-3 fatty acid supplementation influence inflammation, recovery, and performance in endurance athletes?
Research Question: How do different hydration strategies during a marathon affect performance and physiological markers of hydration?
Research Question: How does pre-exercise hydration status influence thermoregulation and performance in athletes exercising in hot conditions?
Research Question: What are the optimal electrolyte replacement strategies for maintaining performance and preventing hyponatremia in long-distance endurance events?

Energy Systems

Research Question: How does HIIT impact mitochondrial density and efficiency in skeletal muscle of trained athletes?
Research Question: How does carbohydrate periodization influence glycogen storage and utilization during endurance exercise?
Research Question: How does the phosphagen system contribute to energy production during short-duration, high-intensity exercise, and what factors influence its efficiency?

This is where we get into the nitty-gritty of how athletes train to improve their strength, flexibility, and endurance. We’ll explore different training methods and how they translate into better performance.

Periodization

Research Question: How does block periodization compare to traditional periodization models in improving performance in elite swimmers?
Research Question: How can periodization strategies be implemented to reduce the risk of overuse injuries in youth athletes?
Research Question: How does undulating periodization affect strength gains and performance in competitive powerlifters?

Strength and Conditioning

Research Question: How does a plyometric training program influence sprint performance and agility in elite soccer players?
Research Question: How does isometric training contribute to maximal strength development in comparison to dynamic resistance training?
Research Question: How does functional movement training affect the incidence of lower limb injuries in collegiate basketball players?

Flexibility Training

Research Question: How does dynamic stretching prior to competition affect performance outcomes in track and field athletes?
Research Question: How does a regular yoga practice influence flexibility, balance, and fall risk in individuals over the age of 65?
Research Question: How does PNF stretching compare to static stretching in improving hamstring flexibility and range of motion?

In Sports Injury and Rehabilitation, we’ll examine common injuries athletes face and how they recover from them. We’ll look at everything from concussions to overuse injuries and the latest techniques in rehabilitation.

Concussions

Research Question: How effective are current concussion protocols in preventing and managing concussions in high school athletes?
Research Question: How does neck strength training impact the risk of concussions in rugby players?
Research Question: What are the long-term cognitive effects of concussions on former professional football players, and how are they being addressed?

Overuse Injuries

Research Question: How does overtraining contribute to the incidence of stress fractures in competitive distance runners?
Research Question: How can biomechanical analysis be used to identify and prevent overuse injuries in tennis players?
Research Question: What are the most effective prevention strategies for reducing overuse injuries in youth baseball pitchers?

Rehabilitation Techniques

Research Question: How effective is aquatic therapy in accelerating the rehabilitation process after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction?
Research Question: How does blood flow restriction training impact muscle strength and recovery in post-operative knee rehabilitation?
Research Question: How does the use of virtual reality technology in rehabilitation programs influence recovery outcomes for sports-related injuries?

In this part, we’ll tackle the tough questions around doping, gender equality, the pressures faced by young athletes, and other similar social aspects and ethical dilemmas related to sport. In other words – t’s all about understanding the broader impact of sports on society.

Research Question: What are the psychological motivations behind doping among professional cyclists, and how can they be addressed?
Research Question: How effective are current anti-doping policies in detecting and deterring doping practices in track and field athletics?
Research Question: How do doping scandals affect public perception and trust in professional sports?

Gender Equality

Research Question: How has Title IX impacted gender equality in college sports programs in the United States?
Research Question: What are the gender disparities in sports sponsorship and media coverage, and how do they affect female athletes?
Research Question: How do policies regarding transgender athletes impact competitive equity and inclusion in sports?

Youth Sports

Research Question: How does early specialization in a single sport affect injury rates in youth athletes?
Research Question: What is the role of parents in youth sports, and how can they balance support and pressure to ensure a positive experience for their children?
Research Question: How does competitive stress impact the mental health and well-being of adolescent athletes, and what coping strategies can be employed?

In Sports Technology and Innovation, we’re going to explore how advancements in technology are changing the game. From wearable tech to video analysis, we’ll see how innovation is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sports.

Wearable Technology

Research Question: How does the use of wearable technology affect training efficiency and performance outcomes in amateur runners?
Research Question: How does wearable technology contribute to injury prevention and monitoring in professional soccer players?
Research Question: How effective are fitness trackers in encouraging physical activity and healthy habits among adolescents?

Video Analysis

Research Question: How does video analysis influence technique improvement and performance in competitive swimmers?
Research Question: How does video analysis impact decision-making and strategy development in basketball coaching?
Research Question: How is video analysis utilized in identifying injury patterns and developing prevention strategies in rugby?

Biometric Monitoring

Research Question: How does biometric monitoring contribute to performance optimization and personalized training in elite cyclists?
Research Question: How does biometric monitoring assist in stress management and performance enhancement in competitive e-sports players?
Research Question: How effective is biometric data in predicting fatigue and preventing overtraining in endurance athletes?

This section is all about how external conditions like altitude, temperature, and air quality affect athletic performance. We’ll delve into how athletes adapt and thrive in different environments .

Altitude Training

Research Question: How does altitude training influence hemoglobin levels and athletic performance in long-distance runners?
Research Question: How does natural altitude training compare to simulated altitude training in terms of physiological adaptations and performance outcomes?
Research Question: How does altitude training affect recovery times and subsequent performance in professional cyclists?

Temperature and Climate

Research Question: How does training in hot vs. cold climates affect endurance, thermoregulation, and performance outcomes in athletes?
Research Question: How is climate change affecting the scheduling, safety, and performance of athletes in outdoor sports events?
Research Question: What are the most effective temperature acclimatization strategies for athletes competing in extreme hot or cold conditions?

Air Pollution

Research Question: How does exposure to air pollution in urban environments affect respiratory function and running performance?
Research Question: What strategies can athletes and coaches employ to minimize the impact of air pollution on outdoor training sessions?
Research Question: What are the long-term effects of air pollution exposure on the respiratory health and performance of marathon runners?

Finally, we have Psychological Well-being in Sports.

Here, we’ll focus on the mental health of athletes, covering topics like mindfulness, body image, and coping with the end of a sports career. It’s all about nurturing the mind as well as the body.

Mindfulness and Meditation

Research Question: How does mindfulness meditation affect focus, anxiety management, and performance in competitive archers?
Research Question: How does the implementation of mindfulness programs impact team cohesion, stress levels, and performance in high school sports teams?
Research Question: How does meditation contribute to the development of mental toughness and resilience in elite athletes?

Body Image and Self-esteem

Research Question: How do body image perceptions affect self-esteem, confidence, and performance in female gymnasts?
Research Question: How does athletic identity influence body image and self-esteem in collegiate athletes, and what are the implications for their performance?
Research Question: How does exposure to social media influence body image and self-esteem in young athletes, and what are the consequences for their mental health and performance?

Coping with Retirement

Research Question: What are the psychological adjustment processes and coping strategies used by Olympic athletes during their transition to retirement?
Research Question: How do career transition programs impact the psychological well-being and life satisfaction of retired professional football players?
Research Question: How do athletes cope with identity crises and psychological challenges following forced retirement due to injury, and what support mechanisms are most effective?

All of these topics and research questions are designed to inspire IB Sports, Exercise, and Health Science students to engage in meaningful and manageable research projects that contribute to their understanding of various aspects of sports science while meeting the IB Extended Essay criteria, format and grading rubric.

Final Words

That wraps up our list of awesome IB SEHS topic ideas for your extended essay! Ready to be in the list of famous IB diploma graduates ? I hope you found some inspiration and are now buzzing with ideas for your research.

Always remember, the key to a great extended essay is choosing a topic you’re genuinely interested in and passionate about; yes, it might sound easy, but in reality, it’s a much more complex task.

Moreover, keep in mind that if you need expert assistance with IB SEHS EE topic suggestions or writing/editing your final draft, Writing Metier extended essay writing service is always ready to help you out!

So, take your time , pick a topic that resonates with you, and get ready to explore the fascinating world of sports, exercise, and health science.

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Vasyl Kafidoff is a co-founder and CEO at WritingMetier. He is interested in education and how modern technology makes it more accessible. He wants to bring awareness about new learning possibilities as an educational specialist. When Vasy is not working, he’s found behind a drum kit.

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50 Best Sports Psychology Research Topics
We hope you find the best topic from the list below: Challenges of gender studies in sport psychology. Compare and contrast anxiety and self-confidence between a team and individual sports at your college. Controlling fans aggression. Dealing with negative stereotypes in sports: Women soccer.
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Importantly, sport psychology applies research and theory to advise and teach coaches, athletes and even parents with the aim of engendering optimal sport performance and participation (Zaichkowsky, 2006; Anshel, 2011). Generally, three commonly intersecting sectors form the basis on which sport psychology is built on, and these can be….
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Psychological studies of sports appeared as early as the late 19th century. During the 1970s and '80s, sports psychology became a fertile research field. And within the last decade or so, sports ...
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Sport psychology as an academic pursuit is nearly two centuries old. An enduring goal since inception has been to understand how psychological techniques can improve athletic performance. Although much evidence exists in the form of meta-analytic reviews related to sport psychology and performance, a systematic review of these meta-analyses is absent from the literature. We aimed to synthesize ...
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Meta-analysis in sport psychology. Several meta-analysis guides, computer programs, and sport psychology domain-specific primers have been popularized in the social sciences [12, 13].Sport psychology academics have conducted quantitative reviews on much studied constructs since the 1980s, with the first two appearing in 1983 in the form of Feltz and Landers' meta-analysis on mental practice ...
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Best sports essay topics in December 2023. A comprehensive analysis of the role of diet in athletic performance. A long-lived moral conundrum: anti-doping policies in athletics. Sports psychology: improving performance through various means. Brain injuries and their effects on American football. Analyzing the link between athletics and patriotism.
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Work on the staff of professional and Olympic teams. Assess your strengths and weaknesses and work on the best plan to improve sports performance. Personal Trainer. Having a sports psychology background can give that extra edge even professional athletes need in their performance. Performance Psychologist.
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Sport psychology is a branch of psychology, it is also a new developed sports science that draws on knowledge from many related fields inclining biomechanics, physiology, kinesiology and psychology. Sport psychology involves the study of how psychological factors affect performance and how participation in sport and exercise affect ...
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A list of sports psychology dissertation topics: Understanding the psychological factors influencing sports participation and dropout rates in adolescents. Understanding the psychological aspects of sports fandom and its impact on mental health. Investigating the psychological factors influencing sports participation among youth in the UK.
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500+ Sports Research Topics. March 26, 2024. by Muhammad Hassan. Sports research topics cover a vast array of areas in the world of athletics, from the physical and psychological impacts of sport on athletes to the social and cultural implications of sports on society. Sports research can include studies on training techniques, nutrition ...
Sport and Exercise Psychology Graduate Theses and Dissertations
Stressors and Coping Behaviors of Female Peer Leaders Participating in College Club Sports, Leigh A. Bryant. PDF. An Exploration of Master's Degree Field Study and Teacher and Student Behavior in P.E, William J. Davis. PDF. An Exploratory Investigation of Baseball Coaches' Attitudes and Experiences With Sport Psychology, Jesse D. Michel
Frontiers in Psychology
Active Methodologies: Exploring the Impact on Motivation and Psychological Variables in Physical Education. Alfonso Valero-Valenzuela. Patxi León Guereño. Luz Amelia Hoyos Cuartas. 2,183 views. 1 article. Explores fundamental and applied reseach across all areas of sport psychology.
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The essay offers a theoretical examination of the tactical and conceptual advancements made in the psychology of sports and exercise around the world in order to look into the recent and ...
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Controversial Psychology Essay Topics. The Ethics of using placebos in clinical trials. The Validity of repressed memories in Therapy. The controversy surrounding conversion therapy. The debate over the existence of multiple personality disorder. The controversy surrounding the use of medication to treat ADHD.
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Tips on Writing an Essay About Sports Sports essay refers to a paper done on a wide variety of subjects, from sports history and psychology to any research done on a particular game. However, despite being such a wide field, there are certain tips you can use to write on any type of sports-related essay topics. The most noticeable ones include:
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Social learning theories can be used in sport because it impacts on the way we perform. It is believed there are four main stages that effect the way we train and perform, whether it is the environment or modelling others. The Bandura theory is where we apparently learn in 4 stages.
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Sport Psychology is the study of how psychology affects sports, athletic performance, exercise and physical activity. Sport psychologists are interested in helping athletes use psychological principles to achieve optimal mental health and to improve performance (Begos). Sport psychologists help athletes with anxiety, concentration/focus, goal ...
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Youth sports is also a key area to look for research topics on sports psychology. Sports psychology research papers could investigate the merits and demerits of youth participation in sports. 1. Relationship between youth involvement in sports and improvement in social and emotional skills in other life areas. 2.
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90+ SEHS Extended Essay Topic Ideas for IB
Global Politics Extended Essay Topics and Research Questions. Dive into the dynamic world of Global Politics with our curated list of Extended Essay topics for 2023. From the digital revolution in democracy to the environmental challenges reshaping our planet, these topics offer a gateway to understanding and analyzing the pressing issues of ...

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Sport psychology and performance meta-analyses: A systematic review of the literature

Introduction

The development of sport psychology

Meta-analysis in sport psychology

Purpose and aim

Materials and methods

Eligibility criteria

Information sources

Search protocol

Study selection

Data extraction process

Individual meta-analysis quality

Planned methods of analysis

Study characteristics

Effect size data and bias correction

Study quality rating results and summary analyses

Recommendations

Limitations

Conclusions

Supporting information

Acknowledgments

Marc Lochbaum

Elisabeth Stoner

Tristen Hefner

Andrew M. Lane

Peter C. Terry

Associated Data

Introduction

The development of sport psychology

Meta-analysis in sport psychology

Purpose and aim

Materials and methods

Eligibility criteria

Information sources

Search protocol

Study selection

Data extraction process

Individual meta-analysis quality

Planned methods of analysis

Study characteristics

Effect size data and bias correction

Study quality rating results and summary analyses

Recommendations

Limitations

Conclusions

Supporting information

Funding Statement

Data Availability

Decision Letter 0

Author response to Decision Letter 0

Decision Letter 1

Acceptance letter

500+ Sports Research Topics

Sports Research Topics

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

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