Performance Psychology

Anyone who has ever competed in a sport, taken an exam, or appeared on stage understands the importance of performing at the right time. Those who excel in these conditions often develop ways to cope with the stress involved, but what cognitive and emotional strategies allow some people to thrive under pressure whilst others are inhibited by it? In Performance Psychology: Theory and Practice, Stewart Cotterill examines not only how stressful situations can affect performance, but also the means by which we can reach our potential regardless. Featuring chapters on decision-making, emotion, resilience and mental toughness, cognition and perception, ageing and experience, confidence, and recovery, this is the definitive textbook in the field, mapping the core theoretical concepts but also offering practical guidance on how performance can be improved. Also including chapters on motor skills and nutrition, it is a complete and comprehensive overview of this growing field of study. Including study questions and further reading in each chapter, Performance Psychology: Theory and Practice will appeal not only to students and researchers across applied psychology, but also coaches and performers looking for ways to realize their potential when it really matters.

Dr Stewart Cotterill is a consultant sport and performance psychologist, and a leadership and performance researcher at the University of Winchester, UK. He is a Registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist (HCPC), Chartered Psychologist, and BASES accredited Sport and Exercise Scientist. Stewart has extensive applied experience in a wide range of sports at a national and international level. His current research interests include the psychology of performance, leadership in sport, factors determining team performance, and professional practice in sport and exercise psychology. He is also author of Team Psychology in Sports: Theory and Practice (2013).

Chapter 1: Introduction Chapter 2: Human performance Chapter 3: Cognition, perception, and action Chapter 4: Understanding pressure Chapter 5: Decision-making under pressure Chapter 6: The role of emotion in performance Chapter 7: Resilience Chapter 8: Ageing and experience Chapter 9: Confidence Chapter 10: Psychophysiology Chapter 11: Developing motor skills Chapter 12: Psychological strategies to enhance performance under pressure Chapter 13: Practicing for performance Chapter 14: Future developments in research and practice