Module 1: Personality

Psychology for Sports Performance

1. Introduction to personality
2. Definitions of personality
   1. Trait approach
   2. Situational approach
   3. Interactional approach
3. Introverts and extroverts
4. Personality type activity
5. Type A and Type B personality types
6. Type A and B personality activity
7. Personality theories
8. Eysenck's personality activities
9. How does personality impact of sports performance?

Introverts and extroverts

These are two extremes of personality. It is unlikely that an athlete would be described as a total introvert or extrovert, but instead would sit somewhere in the middle. See below for the definitions and the particular personality characteristics that may be expected to show in their behaviour.

Introverts - These tend to be more reserved and less confident in social situations. Due to this they are more likely to prefer individual sports, with more fine skills, determination and concentration needed. For example introverts may become distance runners as they like training by themselves. It also requires much concentration and determination to be able to run long distances without getting bored. You usually find that those who prefer team sports, find it difficult to go on long runs without losing motivation to continue.

[D]

Extroverts - These are the opposite to introverts. They tend to be very confident and outgoing in all situations. In contrast to introverts they are likely to prefer team sports with a lot of interactions with other players. There is more uncertainty in these situations therefore extroverts need to be dynamic and be able to implement strategies and tactics on demand. Although this is also evident in individual sports, due to the increased number of players in team sport, this demand increases. Some people also like working in a team because they enjoy working to the same goals as other people.

[D]

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Extroverts Do you think extroverts take part mainly in team sports, or individual sports? a) Team sport b) Individual sport Correct - extroverts are more likely to engage in team sports due the social nature and often lively characteristics of team sportsIncorrect - extroverts are more likely to engage in team sports due the social nature and often lively characteristics of team sportsYour answer has been saved.

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Introverts Do you think introverts take part mainly in team sports, or individual sports? a) Team sport b) Individual sport Correct - introverts are more likely to engage in individual sports as they are often quiet, and don't have to interact with others as much as you do in team sportsIncorrect - introverts are more likely to engage in individual sports as they are often quiet, and don't have to interact with others as much as you do in team sportsYour answer has been saved.