Abstract

The main question in this dissertation is if the mental training program does change sport performance. The mental training program is defined as all the factors involved in the process between an athlete and a sport psychologist, including the mental skills. For the theory a rationale is given for the reduction model which states that mental training does not improve the athletic movements, but decreases the interfering processes an sport performance. To explain the effect of mental skills the hypothetical model is proposed. For this empirical testing two studies were conducted to test for hypotheses concerning the effect of the mental training program. The first study is a retrospective study with elite athletes about the differences before and after the mental training program, and influences an the use of mental skills in game preparation and in competitions. The second study is a natural setting study done during a Dutch National Youth Championship of ten-pin bowling to test for hypotheses concerning the effect of mental skills, and differences between successful and unsuccessful bowlers. The general conclusion is that the mental training program is effective in improving sport performance. The mental training program, either the mental skills or events in the interaction between the Sport psychologist and the athlete, changes the cognitive structure which improves the athletic performances. The mental processes that influence sport performance significantly are self-confidence, reaching the right arousal level, coping with circumstances, and explaining the performances. These mental concepts are influenced by the following mental skills: imagery an emotions, realistic thoughts, goal-setting, self-talk of physical skills, and relaxation. A major conclusion is that the Sport psychologist him- or herself is a very, if not the most, important tool in the mental training program. Some implications for the world of Sport and science are given for frequent ineffective athletic behavior, and for further developing of science. Finally, recommendations are given for athletes, coaches and Sport psychologists, for both training and competition. Verf.-Referat