What is performance psychology, exactly, and what do sports psychologists do? Sport and performance psychology is recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA) as an area of specialization that a psychologist can pursue. Sports psychologists often work with athletes and support coaches, trainers and even family members, helping them build mental resilience, manage pressure and enhance performance. These professionals use evidence-based psychological techniques to address challenges like performance anxiety, focus, motivation and recovery from setbacks.2
However, performance psychology isn’t limited to athletics. Performance psychologists also work with professionals in high-stakes fields like business, medicine, the performing arts and the military. They can help surgeons maintain composure in the operating room, guide a CEO through high-pressure decision-making or support a dancer in managing stage fright. These experts apply psychological principles to help individuals perform at their best when it matters most.
Sports psychology is a specialized area within the broader field of performance psychology. While performance psychologists work with a variety of high-performing individuals, from surgeons to executives, sports psychologists specifically focus on assisting athletes and those involved in sports organizations to optimize their mental game.3
Here are some ways sports psychologists support athletes:
- Facilitating conflict resolution among teammates
- Helping athletes manage nerves and sharpen focus during high-pressure moments
- Supporting emotional regulation, assisting athletes in developing control over their temper
- Reigniting motivation in athletes who struggle to commit to their training regimen
- Improving communication between coaches, managers and players, both individually and as a team
Sports psychologists also assist athletes in coping with injuries. Being sidelined can negatively impact an athlete’s mental health, and psychologists can help them develop a positive mindset, manage pain and stay committed to their rehabilitation plans.
Additionally, sports psychologists help athletes during major life transitions, such as being traded to a new team or considering retirement. They help athletes navigate these changes, maintain a healthy career-life balance and make thoughtful decisions about their futures.
While a sports psychologist cannot directly improve a baseball player’s batting average or score goals for a hockey player, they can help athletes master the game’s mental aspects. This, in turn, enhances performance and fosters stronger team dynamics through improved communication and collaboration.
