Using imagery to predict self-confidence and anxiety in young elite athletes

As elite sport participation by children is growing (Smoll & Smith, 1996), it is important to study the psychological development of these athletes. Imagery is one strategy that may be used by young athletes in controlling arousal levels in competition (Weiss, 1991). Although there has been a great deal of research examining the use of imagery by adult athletes (Hall, 2001), there have been fewer studies investigating how imagery is related to competitive anxiety and self-confidence in young elite athletes (c.f, Vadocz et al., 1997). The purpose of this study was to examine how much imagery use predicts self-confidence and anxiety in young elite athletes through the development of a more child-centered measurement tool for imagery use. Participants were recruited from the national baton twirling championships in Canada and the USA. The sample consisted of 76 female athletes between the ages of 7--15 years. Athletes were divided into two age cohorts: 7--11 years and 12--15 years. (Abstract shortened by UMI.) Paper copy at Leddy Library: Theses & Major Papers - Basement, West Bldg. / Call Number: Thesis2004 .S77. Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 43-03, page: 1003. Adviser: Krista Chandler. Thesis (M.H.K.)--University of Windsor (Canada), 2004