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

Controlling aggression

From understanding the different types of aggression that can occur in sport, it is necessary that all coaches have an understanding of how their performers can use controlled aggression to improve performance and that they have methods that can be used to reduce hostile aggression. Here are some ways in which aggression can be controlled:

1. Punishment to performers that are displaying hostile or instrumental aggression within sport e.g. fines, bans, red cards.
2. Channel aggression in to the performance, focusing on the task.
3. Coach/peers to provide praise for non-aggressive behaviour.
4. Remove self from aggressive situations, e.g. walking away, being subbed
5. Make sure performers are aware of code of conduct set by Governing Bodies and enforced on performers on a regular basis to ensure performers follow it promoting good sportsmanship.
6. Coaches to teach their team respect towards others e.g. opposition, officials, coaches, team mates, fans.
7. Do not show negative aggressive acts on the television; only show the positive role models.
8. Coaches need to provide performers with anger management techniques to use when faced with a situation in which they may become hostile.