SPOR06022 2022 Exercise and Health Psychology

Describe fundamental concepts in psychology 

Utilise a range of appropriate practical techniques to enable a range of solutions to psychological challenges.

Show how thoughts, values, and beliefs influence an individual's participation and performance in sport.

Construct and design a Psychological Skills Training program for exercise participants.

Explain factors that influence health behaviours with specific reference to exercise

Fundamental concepts are introduced and illustrated through lectures. The understanding of students is tested and further enhanced through student centred learning exercises and interactive practical sessions. The application of theory to practice is facilitated through both teaching and practical application. Within the module's theory and practical components a blended method of delivery is an option when suitable.

Mental Skills Program Training (MST) logbook.

This assignment is designed to provide students with an opportunity to apply the knowledge of psychological skills they have learned in class and create their own teaching methods. Throughout the term students will develop a MST protocol for each mental skill we discuss in class. By the end of the semester they will have a notebook with written document explaining how to teach mental skills to their athletes and exercise practiitioners. Each student needs to select a specific population (e.g., individual or group, age level, sport or exercise setting-marital arts, rehabilitation, home-based, team or individual activity-competitive level...)

Program Revision.

Each student will identify an existing sport, exercise, or physical activity program in the community. The student is responsible for modifying or revising the program design to incorporate concepts and theories discussed in class. Completion of this assignment will require that each student partner with a program leader or administrator. The program revision should be negotiated with the program leader. Students must also implement and evaluate at least three of their program revision strategies. Students will be expected to document the strategy implementation and prepare a written evaluation (Logbook) of its effectiveness. 

Client Interview/Consultation.

Students will interview an athlete/client volunteer for the purpose of conducting a mental skills needs assessment. Based on your evaluation you will recommend a MST program and outline a proposal for an evaluation research project to determine the effectiveness of the program. Each student will present there work at a selected date. 

• Repeat Assignments may take the form of:

• Essay
• Project Work
• Practical Work

Fundamental Concepts (1/2)

• The Brain and Nervous System
• Approaches to Psychology
• Personality
• Motivation
• Goal Setting
• Imagery
• Body Image
• The Team
• Well Being and Mental Health
• The Coach/Leader
• Optimal Experience

Motivation (1/2/4)                                                                               

• Appraise motivation theory
• Identify strategies for developing self-confidence
• Goal Setting
• Describe strategies used in the recovery from injury

Stress/Arousal/Anxiety (1/2/4)                                                                                                 

• Identify the major principles
• Describe the stress process
• The nature of anxiety
• Identify the sources of stress
• Describe the consequences of Stress
• Describe stress management

Attention and Imagery (1/2/4)                                                                          

• Identify the major principles and definitions
• Describe the dimensions of attention
• Describe concentration training
• Practice imagery routines and exercises

Youth in Sport and Exercise (1/2/3)                                  

• Describe theoretical perspectives on youth sport participation
• Psychological readiness
• Explain how to enhance children's sport experiences
• Discuss coach and peer influence
• Describe models of burnout
• Identify symptoms and interventions for burnout       

Exercise and Mental Health (3/5)

• Mental Health Defined
• Green and Blue Exercise
• Well Being
• Body Image
• Optimal Experience

Health Behaviours (5/3)                                                                     

• Describe health-enhancing Behaviours:  Diet, Exercise, and Weight control 
• Identify health-compromising Behaviours:  Smoking and drinking  
• Compare Health Behaviour models

 Components of MSP Program (2/4)                                                                                   

• Describe and practice education
• Describe and practice pre-assessment
• Describe and practice skills acquisition
• Describe and practice periodic and post-assessment
• Describe and practice adherence to program