What Are Psychological Skills in Sport?
Psychological skills are mental techniques that athletes use to enhance performance, manage pressure, and improve consistency. In IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS), psychological skills explain why athletes with similar physical ability can perform very differently in competitive situations.
These skills can be learned, practised, and refined, just like physical or technical skills.
Defining Psychological Skills in IB SEHS
Psychological skills are learned mental strategies that help athletes control thoughts, emotions, and behaviour during training and competition.
They are used to:
- Improve focus and concentration
- Regulate arousal and anxiety
- Build confidence
- Enhance motivation and consistency
In IB exams, students should emphasise that psychological skills are trainable, not innate traits.
Why Psychological Skills Matter in Sport
Physical preparation alone does not guarantee performance. Psychological skills help athletes perform under pressure and maintain consistency across performances.
Athletes with strong psychological skills are more likely to:
- Stay focused in high-pressure situations
- Recover quickly from mistakes
- Maintain confidence during setbacks
- Perform consistently across competitions
In IB SEHS, psychological skills are often linked to elite performance and competitive success.
Common Psychological Skills in Sport
Several psychological skills are commonly studied in IB SEHS.
These include:
- Goal setting
- Imagery (visualisation)
- Self-talk
- Relaxation techniques
Each skill targets a different aspect of mental control and performance preparation.
Psychological Skills vs Psychological Characteristics
A common IB mistake is confusing psychological skills with psychological characteristics.
Psychological skills:
- Are learned and practised
- Can be improved over time
- Include techniques such as imagery or self-talk
Psychological characteristics:
- Are relatively stable traits
- Include confidence or motivation
High-mark answers clearly distinguish between the two.
When Psychological Skills Are Used
Psychological skills can be used:
- Before performance to prepare mentally
- During performance to maintain focus
- After performance to reflect and recover
Effective athletes integrate psychological skills into regular training rather than using them only in competition.
Exam Relevance for IB SEHS
Psychological skills questions often require explanation and application. High-mark answers clearly define psychological skills, explain their purpose, and apply them to sporting scenarios or performance situations.
Avoid stating that psychological skills are “just mental strength” without explanation.
RevisionDojo Call to Action
If psychological skills feel vague or hard to apply in exam answers, RevisionDojo helps IB SEHS students master psychology topics with clear explanations, examples, and exam-style practice. It is the most effective way to turn theory into exam marks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are psychological skills in IB SEHS?
Psychological skills are learned mental strategies used to improve performance, focus, and emotional control.
Are psychological skills learned or innate?
They are learned and can be improved through practice and training.
How are psychological skills tested in IB SEHS exams?
Students are often asked to define psychological skills and apply them to performance, pressure, or training scenarios.
