Professor’s Summary
This literature review provides a comprehensive exploration of the complex relationship between anxiety and sports, weaving together personal reflections and academic research. The author effectively highlights the multifaceted nature of anxiety in sports, considering variables such as sport type, the role of perfectionism, and cultural perspectives. The review is well-organized and insightful, demonstrating a strong grasp of both the psychological and cultural dimensions of the topic. However, while the personal anecdotes add depth, the essay occasionally lacks a clear connection between these anecdotes and the cited literature. Strengthening these links would enhance the overall coherence of the paper.
The Complex Relationship Between Anxiety and Sports: A Literature Review
I. Introduction
Growing up in New Mexico, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate relationship between physical activity and mental well-being. From the traditional games played at our community gatherings to the high-stakes world of competitive high school sports, I’ve observed firsthand how different forms of physical activity can profoundly impact a person’s state of mind. This personal interest has led me to explore the relationship between anxiety and sports more deeply, drawing on both scientific research and my own experiences.
Anxiety, as defined in the literature, is a reaction measured through various cognitive and physiological symptoms in response to a stimulus. In sports, this often manifests as pre-performance jitters or the intense pressure of competition. I’ve felt this myself before important basketball games, and I’ve seen it in the eyes of my teammates as we prepare for a crucial match.
The relationship between anxiety and sports is multifaceted, varying not only from person to person but also depending on the type of sport. For instance, the anxiety I feel before an individual event like long-distance running is quite different from the collective nervousness our team experiences before a basketball game. This complexity is well-documented in the literature (Mellalieu, Hanton & O’Brien, 2004).
II. Statement of the Problem
While it’s widely accepted that participation in sports activities is beneficial for both physical and mental health, the specific relationship between sports and anxiety requires further exploration. This review aims to examine the mechanisms by which engagement in sports reduces anxiety in people, as well as the effect of different types of sports on anxiety levels.
III. Literature Review
The Importance of Fun in Reducing Anxiety
Chambers (1991) highlights the significance of enjoyment in sports participation, especially for young athletes. This resonates with my own experiences in school sports programs. I remember how our coach would always emphasize the importance of having fun, even during intense training sessions. Chambers cites a 1978 study by Sapp and Haubenstricker, which found that children who had the most fun in school sports experienced less anxiety after their games. This finding aligns with the teachings of our elders, who often stress the importance of finding joy in all activities, including physical ones.
Perfectionism in Sports: A Double-Edged Sword
Flett and Hewitt (2005) introduce the concept of perfectionism in sports, a notion that struck a chord with me. In our community, we value excellence, but not at the cost of balance and well-being. The authors describe three dimensions of perfectionism: self-oriented, other-oriented, and socially prescribed. I’ve witnessed how these different forms of perfectionism can manifest in my teammates and even in myself.
While perfectionism can drive athletes to excel, Flett and Hewitt argue that it often leads to “self-defeating outcomes and unhealthy patterns of behavior.” This reminds me of a teammate who was so focused on achieving perfection that she often experienced intense anxiety before games, which ultimately affected her performance negatively.
Sports as a Tool for Psychological Rehabilitation
Gioia et al. (2006) explored the psychological impact of sports activities on individuals with spinal cord injuries. Their findings suggest a positive correlation between increased sports activity and improved neurological status. This study resonates with me on a personal level, as I’ve seen how physical activity has helped members of my community cope with various health challenges. The authors’ suggestion for collaboration between rehabilitation institutes and sports organizations aligns with our community’s holistic approach to healing and well-being.
The Impact of Sport Type on Anxiety
Mellalieu, Hanton, and O’Brien (2004) examined how different types of sports affect anxiety levels. Their research indicates that participants in contact sports often experience higher levels of cognitive anxiety due to the threat of personal confrontation. This made me reflect on the difference I feel between playing basketball and practicing traditional archery – the latter, being a non-contact individual sport, tends to induce less anxiety.
Physical Activity and Mental Health
Miles (2007) provides a comprehensive overview of the benefits of physical activity on both physiological and psychological health. The article supports the position that physical activity can help manage both immediate and stable anxiety. This aligns with the teachings of our elders about the importance of staying active for overall well-being.
Genetic and Biochemical Factors in Anxiety
Sklan et al. (2004) offer insights into the genetic and biochemical factors underlying anxiety. While this scientific approach might seem at odds with traditional knowledge, I find it fascinating how modern research can complement and sometimes validate ancestral wisdom about the interconnectedness of mind and body.
Optimal Anxiety Levels in Young Athletes
Wilson and Raglin (1997) explored the concept of an “individual zone of optimal functioning” (IZOF) in young track and field athletes. This idea of finding a personal balance point where a certain level of anxiety actually enhances performance fascinates me. It reminds me of the teachings of our elders about finding harmony in all aspects of life.
IV. Clinical Implications
The literature suggests that anxiety in sports might be a function of perfectionism in athletes. As Flett and Hewitt (2005) note, perfectionism in sports can be maladaptive and often leads to anxiety and depression. This underscores the importance of developing strategies to help athletes manage perfectionist tendencies and maintain a healthy balance in their approach to sports.
V. Conclusion
The literature reviewed establishes a clear positive correlation between sports participation and anxiety management. Sports activities have been shown to improve self-esteem, confidence, mood, and overall mental health, particularly in children (Ogilvie, 1979; Chambers, 1991).
However, the impact of sports on anxiety levels varies depending on factors such as the type of sport. Contact sports generally generate higher anxiety levels due to the pressure of physical confrontation, while non-contact sports tend to be associated with lower anxiety levels and higher self-confidence (Mellalieu, Hanton & O’Brien, 2004).
VI. Future Research
Given the strong evidence supporting the positive correlation between sports and anxiety management, future research could focus on developing and evaluating intervention strategies that use sports as a therapy for individuals with anxiety disorders. Additionally, there’s a need for more culturally diverse studies that explore how different cultural perspectives and practices might influence the relationship between anxiety and sports.
As someone straddling both the world of modern competitive sports and traditional cultural practices, I’m excited to see how this field of study evolves and how it might benefit not just athletes, but anyone seeking balance in their life.
References:
1. Mellalieu, S. D., Hanton, S., & O’Brien, M. (2004). The Effects of Sport Type on Anxiety Responses. Journal of Sports Psychology, 12(3), 126-138. Online Available.
2. Flett, G. L., & Hewitt, P. L. (2005). Perfectionism and Maladaptive Coping in Sports. International Journal of Sports Psychology, 18(2), 95-112.
3. Chambers, R. (1991). Enjoyment in Youth Sports and Its Impact on Anxiety. Journal of Child Psychology, 9(2), 63-72. Online Available.
4. Gioia, M. C., Leff, S. S., & Shepherd, S. A. (2006). Sports as a Tool for Psychological Rehabilitation. Rehabilitation Psychology, 34(4), 301-314.
5. Miles, L. (2007). Physical Activity and Mental Health: A Comprehensive Overview. Journal of Sports Medicine, 21(1), 45-59. Online Available.