Mental Qualities and Employed Mental Techniques of Young Elite Team Sport Athletes

• DOI: 10.1123/jcsp.4.1.19
• Publication Date: 2016-08-10T13:41:29Z
• Authors: Mark J.G. Holland; Charlotte Woodcock; Jennifer Cumming; Joan L. Duda
• Keywords: 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; BF Psychology

Research on the psychological characteristics of elite performers has primarily focused on Olympic and World champions; however, the mental attributes of young developing and talented athletes have received less attention. Addressing this, the current study had two aims: (a) to examine the perceptions held by youth athletes regarding the mental qualities they need to facilitate their development and (b) to investigate the mental techniques used by these athletes. Forty-three male youth rugby players participated in a series of focus groups. Inductive content analysis revealed 11 categories of psychological qualities, including enjoyment, responsibility, adaptability, squad spirit, self-aware learner, determination, confidence, optimal performance state, game sense, attentional focus, and mental toughness. Techniques employed included personal performance strategies, refection on action, taking advantage of a supportive climate, and team-based strategies. Findings are discussed in relation to their implications for mental skills training program development and evaluation in the case of youth elite team sport athletes.