Current status of sport psychology

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Abstract
This paper considers a range of possible goals for psychological intervention in sport psychology, identifies the sporting settings in which psychologists are likely to work, and examines the types of interventions which may be developed from a behavioural perspective. Operant and cognitive‐behavioural frameworks provide a number of strategies for enhancing sporting performance, some of which are described and illustrated. There is a need for careful evaluation in this area, and some specific methodological concerns must be considered. Professional concerns should also be addressed There is the potential danger that standards of professional service, ethical matters, and conceptual rigour could be submerged by the demands of sport settings. Areas in which psychology can contribute include collaboration with sports scientists and coaches, the development of educational materials of a behavioural nature, and the evaluation of current practice. An emphasis on a strong relationship of sport psychology to the discipline and profession of psychology as a whole, and on the well‐considered development of professional services, should be to the benefit of sport psychology.