Module 4: Aggression

Psychology for Sports Performance

1. Introduction to aggression
2. Types of aggression
3. Types of aggression activity
4. Causes of aggression
5. Controlling aggression
6. Anger management techniques
   1. Controlled breathing
   2. Self-talk
7. Self-talk activity

Causes of aggression

Is aggression nature or nuture? As like personality theories suggest that aggression is a natural drive and during sporting activity the aggression can be channelled appropriately. Other theorists of social learning suggest that we copy others in the way we act offering both good and bad role models in society. More recent theories combine the two, suggesting that it is frustration that triggers anger and aggression. Performers could become frustrated for a number of reasons to include not being on form, frustration with the officials for making incorrect decisions or frustrated about the lack of team work being displayed by others. In sport however aggression is more common when players are losing or individuals are not competing at their best.

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