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This study investigated the relationship between sport related metacognitions with state anxiety dimensions, and compared how sporting categories affected these variables, among an online sample of athletes (N = 187). A MANOVA revealed there were significant differences between sporting types in metacognitive beliefs relating to the utility of rumination and arousal, the need to control thoughts, and levels of somatic anxiety. Correlations and multiple regressions showed that that in contrast to the relationships with self-confidence, cognitive and somatic state anxiety were positively associated with specific dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs, but negatively related to metacognitive processes. Overall, these findings highlight that: (a) athletes might adopt metacognitions to meet the different cognitive demands of sport types; and (b) metacognitions are in part responsible for the occurrence of state anxiety and self-confidence during competitions. The findings of this study have implications toward how researchers and sports practitioners approach the comprehensive nature of competitive anxiety.

Dyslexia is known as a Learning Disability (LD), a reading disability and a neurological disability; yet there is confusion about dyslexia and the associated support required in learning. Challenges are experienced by adult students with dyslexia in both social and organisational contexts. This study explored the life experiences of adult students with dyslexia, in Technical and Further Education (TAFE) Colleges in Australia. The shift from a prior negative self-perception to a current positive social identity in adult students with dyslexia can be developed through key supporting relationships and interactions in educational institutions.

A substantial body of research indicates that higher education students from lower social class backgrounds tend to have poorer health than those from higher social class backgrounds. To investigate sleep as a potential mediator of this relationship, online survey responses of students from five large Australian universities, one Irish university and one large Australian technical college were analysed in three studies (Study 1 N = 628; Study 2 N = 376; Study 3 N = 446). The results revealed that sleep quality, sleep duration, sleep disturbances, pre‐sleep worries and sleep schedule variability mediated the relationship between social class and physical and mental health. Sleep remained a significant mediator when controlling for related variables and other mediators. Thus, the findings suggest that sleep partly explains social class differences in health. We discuss the importance of addressing sleep issues among students from lower social class backgrounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated triathletes' metacognitions and mindfulness traits (N = 232) measured prior to competition, and flow (N = 63), post competition. The primary aim was to investigate whether metacognitions (measured by the Metacognitions Questionnaire) would associate with mindfulness facets (measured by the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire – Short Form), and metacognitions would also predict flow scores (measured by the Short Flow State Scale), over and above mindfulness facets. Regression analyses showed that metacognitions individually predicted mindfulness facets. A hierarchical regression showed that positive beliefs about worry negatively predicted flow, while a lack of cognitive confidence, beliefs about the need for thought control and acting with awareness positively predicted flow. These findings indicate that a) metacognitive beliefs are influential to cognitive predispositions, b) typically dysfunctional metacognitions may play a different role in competitive environments, and c) metacognitions may play a more important role in the occurrence of flow, than mindfulness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Australian NRL's State of Mind programme was evaluated; specifically, a 1.5-hour intervention for increasing knowledge of mental illness, reducing attitudinal components of mental illness stigma and increasing help-seeking propensity in a sample drawn from amateur rugby league clubs in Queensland. The National Rugby League (NRL) is the pre-eminent rugby league club competition in Australia and New Zealand. Participants, 16 years of age and older, completed a pre- and post-intervention survey capturing four mental illness knowledge measures, four attitudinal measures of stigma and one measure of help-seeking propensity. Results demonstrated that 1.5 weeks after intervention, the 1.5-hour targeted intervention associated with significant meaningful improvements in mental health knowledge, attitudinal components of mental illness stigma and help-seeking intention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study employed a qualitative in-match recording technique to understand how A-grade amateur golfers (n = 8) experience psycho-behavioral momentum during competitive matchplay. The aims were to capture, in real-time, thoughts and emotions associated with perceived changes to psycho-behavioral momentum, to understand what high-standard golfers perceive as significant triggers for both positive and negative psycho-behavioral momentum, and what strategies they might employ during a competition to maintain positive psycho-behavioral momentum and to overcome negative psycho-behavioral momentum. To complement the matchplay data, semi-structured group interviews were conducted to corroborate interpretive findings from the matchplay data and to discuss participants' beliefs regarding momentum in the matchplay environment. Thematic analysis of both data sets revealed four themes to emerge from the participants' statements pertaining to the genesis and maintenance of their experience of psycho-behavioral momentum: Unexpected Events (discrepancy between players' expectations and reality, either positive or negative); Control (feeling in control: cognitions, emotions, behaviors, and outcomes; and appearing in control); Temporality (a perception that psycho-behavioral momentum cannot occur early in matches, sufficient match pressure and intensity is required to generate psycho-behavioral momentum); and Pressure (application and maintenance of psychological pressure upon opponent, and the management of pressure applied by opponent). Findings support existing conceptual models of momentum and extend the knowledgebase regarding how individuals experience momentum in competitive skill-based sports such as golf. Several strategies are suggested that could assist in building awareness of and managing psycho-behavioral momentum fluctuations. Lay summary: Information from competitive Australian matchplay golfers during interviews and matches revealed four key contributors to experiencing positive and negative psycho-behavioral momentum during rounds of matchplay golf. These key contributors are unexpected events, feeling and appearing in control, how far the game has progressed, and applying and coping with pressure. Psycho-behavioral momentum is an important aspect of applied sport psychology instruction and intervention. Sport psychology interventions aiming to enhance psycho-behavioral momentum, and thus performance, should support athletes to develop strategies that enhance feeling and appearing in control, along with skills to effectively manage psycho-behavioral momentum consequences of unexpected events. Sport psychology interventions should aim to build psycho-behavioral momentum early in competition, ideally building from training prior to events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 400 yoga-related videos featuring women on Instagram were analysed. • Most women were perceived to be in their 20s, white, thin and toned. • Videos largely featured advanced yoga flows or poses; many were risky. • Videos were mostly performative, few were instructive. Representations of yoga within media have become increasingly idealised, depicting typical practitioners as young, thin, and physically competent. While previous content analyses of yoga have focused on still images, social media platforms such as Instagram encourage the use of video to enhance viewer engagement. Video may contain features which reflect a more nuanced view of the body, and therefore the current study analysed 400 women in yoga-related videos on Instagram for appearance characteristics, body conceptualisation, yoga pose type, risk, and perceived intention. The vast majority of women were perceived to be in their 20s and thin or athletic. Only 13.2 % of women showed average visible levels of body fat, while more than a third displayed visible muscularity across multiple muscle groups. There was little presence of objectification with the majority of women in active poses, though more than 60 % of poses/sequences were advanced and potentially risky. The vast majority of videos appeared to be for the purpose of demonstrating skill rather than instructing the viewer. The findings show that videos on Instagram perpetuate unrealistic appearance ideals in yoga and also provide a platform for content creators to engage viewers by representing yoga as a highly performative, predominantly advanced physical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Premature ejaculation (PE) and erectile dysfunction (ED) are prevalent sexual problems, with evidence to suggest variation across sexual orientation. Contributing factors have traditionally been divided into organic and psychological categories. While limited research has found support for the influence of metacognitive beliefs, these studies did not investigate potential differences in sexual orientation. Aim: The current study aimed to investigate the differences in metacognitive beliefs in men with or without PE and/or ED and whether these varied according to sexual orientation. Method: A sample of 531 men was recruited (65 met criteria for PE only, 147 for ED, 83 with PE and ED, and 236 healthy controls). Within this sample, 188 men identified as heterosexual, 144 as bisexual, and 199 as homosexual. Participants completed a cross-sectional online survey consisting of psychometric measures. Results: Participants with PE and ED were significantly higher in cognitive confidence, thoughts concerning uncontrollability and danger, and need to control thoughts than PE only, ED only, and healthy controls. Furthermore, the PE only group was significantly higher than healthy controls for cognitive confidence, with the ED significantly higher for thoughts concerning uncontrollability and danger. There were no significant differences between differing sexual orientations for men with/or without PE and/or ED. Conclusions: Congruent with previous research, metacognitive beliefs play a role in PE and/or ED, although this is not exclusive to sexual orientation. The findings highlight that assessment and intervention regarding metacognitive beliefs may be beneficial for men of all sexual orientations with PE and/or ED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Physical activity and a healthy diet may delay the aging process and ultra-endurance exercise is an extreme form of physical activity. Telomeres are protective DNA sequences located at the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes which shorten as we age. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships of lifetime physical activity and diet with salivary cell telomere length in current ultra-endurance exercisers (n = 49; % female = 37, age range 26–74 years). METHODS: Physical activity and dietary intake were measured using the Lifetime Physical Activity and Diet Questionnaire (LPADQ) and salivary cell telomere length was measured using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: In this group of current ultra-endurance exercisers there was no relationship between lifetime physical activity or diet (according to food category scores) and telomere length. In contrast to the expected age-related decrease in telomere length, there was no relationship between age and telomere length (95% confidence interval [CI]: –38.86, 14.54, p = 0.359) in this group of current ultra-endurance exercisers. CONCLUSIONS: The relationships of lifetime physical activity and diet with telomere length remain uncertain. It is possible that lifetime physical activity (including ultra-endurance exercise) and lifetime diet may independently, or in combination, contribute to a decrease in the rate of age-related telomere shortening in current ultra-endurance exercisers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate self-reported practice, beliefs, and barriers regarding prescription of dietary change for mental health from a range of mental health practitioners across Australia. Method: An online survey was completed by 193 Australian mental health practitioners. Results: Over 50% of practitioners reported prescribing dietary change for stress, depression, and anxiety at least weekly in their practice. Over half the practitioners considered dietary change to be 60-100% useful for enhancing mental health outcomes. Approximately one-quarter of the practitioners considered dietary change to be less than 40% useful for treating mental health conditions. Thematic analysis revealed the most frequently reported higher-order barrier themes were practitioner barriers (43.8%) and client barriers (29.2%), with insufficient skills and knowledge (15.9%) and client adherence (12.8%) being commonly cited initial codes. Conclusion: Mental health practitioners in Australia prescribe dietary change for mental health. However, barriers to prescription of dietary change for mental health need be addressed to overcome challenges associated with using it as a therapeutic intervention for mental health conditions. Universities and university training accreditation bodies should consider providing more extensive instruction in psycho-nutrition as part of mental health practitioners' training. Likewise, further recognised professional development should be offered, and awarded, for already qualified practitioners. Key Points What is already known about this topic: Diet is becoming more accepted as having a substantial influence upon mental health. Improving diet quality has been acknowledged as serving a protective role in reducing the rate of cognitive decline. The importance of dietary change remains underestimated by mental health professionals for the treatment of mental health maladies. What this research adds: Results demonstrated over 50% of the sample of mental health practitioners reported prescribing dietary change for stress, depression, and anxiety at least daily or weekly in their practice. Approximately a third of the mental health practitioners reported believing dietary change to be 80-100% useful for mental health outcomes. Most frequently reported barriers to the prescription of dietary change for mental health were practitioner barriers (43.8%) and client barriers (29.2%) higher-order themes, with insufficient skills and knowledge (15.9%) and client adherence (12.8%) being commonly cited initial codes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated associations between triathletes' sports-specific metacognitive beliefs, metacognitive processes measured prior to a triathlon (n = 193), and in-event flow measured post event (n = 76).. The Metacognitive questionnaires were administered to triathletes one day prior to the event, and the flow scale was administered just following the event. Bivariate correlations were used to test relationships with individual flow dimensions, while stepwise regressions were used to determine the strongest metacognitive predictors of meta processes and flow. Correlations indicated that metacognitive beliefs were negatively associated with various specific dimensions of flow (Cohen's f2 =.28), while metacognitive processes positively associated with flow dimensions (Cohen's f 2 =.49). Stepwise regressions revealed that specific metacognitive beliefs were negatively associated with metacognitive processes during competition (Cohen's f2 =.08 to.49), including the coordination, evaluation and control of cognition. Further regressions demonstrated that negative beliefs about competitive thinking, thought control, and cognitive coordination predicted experience of flow during competition. Overall, this study demonstrated that sports specific metacognitive beliefs and processes may influence the regulation of flow during a competition, however, further research using longitudinal and qualitative methodologies is required to understand the relationships further KEY POINTS (1)Flow state has been well established as mental state for optimal performance. (2)Manifesting flow requires effective self-regulation of attention and cognition. (3)Metacognitions have shown to influence attention and flow in athletes. (4)Sports-specific metacognitions were associated with various dimensions of flow state. (5)Sports-specific metacognitive beliefs predicted self-regulatory ability prior to performances. (6)Sports-specific metacognitions predicted the experience of flow during performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a prevalent chronic condition with a large demand for treatment. This community outpatient study examined the effectiveness of a group intervention version of the established one-to-one cognitive therapy derived from the Clark and Wells model for SAD. Questionnaires were completed pre-treatment and post-treatment for SAD symptoms (Social Phobia Scale, Social Interaction Anxiety Scale), depressive symptoms (BDI-II), self-focused attention, safety behaviours (Social Phobia Weekly Summary Scale and Subtle Avoidance Frequency Examination), and impaired functioning (Work and Social Adjustment Scale). From an initial sample of 159 participants, 101 completed at least seven of the nine weekly group sessions (Mage = 34.1 years, SDage = 10.8 years, 53% female). Significant improvements were demonstrated on all measures. Large effect sizes were found for social anxiety symptoms and safety behaviour use. Self-focused attention, depressive symptoms, and impaired functioning had moderate effect sizes. Effect sizes for anxiety (d = 1.00 and 1.32) and mood measures (d = 0.71) were as high, or in some cases, higher than previous group treatment studies. Results suggest group cognitive therapy for SAD based on the Clark and Wells model is effective in a clinical setting for individuals with moderate/severe and treatment-resistant social anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physiotherapists report using a range of psychosocial strategies in their practice, yet, barriers to implementation include lack of time, limited knowledge, and minimal training. This research aimed to establish what training physiotherapists have had with regards to psychosocial strategies, why they think they would benefit from more training, what training they want, and delivery preferences. Content analysis of answers to four open‐ended, online survey questions collected from Australian physiotherapists (N = 208) was conducted. Physiotherapists reported having minimal training specific to psychosocial strategies. Physiotherapists reported wanting training in assessment and management of psychosocial issues, and practical application of specific psychosocial strategies. Didactic and interactive training delivered by experts who understand the psychosocial needs of their patients, and the constraints of physiotherapy practice was preferred. These findings suggest that training in psychosocial strategies at the undergraduate level and continued professional development are necessary. Specifically, training in the assessment and management of psychosocial factors, and in referral processes is warranted, and should be applicable and appropriate for rehabilitation settings. Training should be both didactic and interactive as outlined in the proposed framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The images of 800 women from yoga-related Instagram posts were analysed. • Most women seemed to be white, in their 20 s, with thin and/or athletic body types. • Many yoga poses were advanced; a quarter demonstrated potential physical risk. As yoga continues to increase in global popularity, idealized representations of a thin, athletic 'yoga body' have also become more prominent across commercial media. To examine how yoga is typically represented on social media, a content analysis of the posts of female yoga practitioners on Instagram was undertaken. Images were sourced using hashtags #yoga , #yogabody , #yogapractice , and #yogawoman , and 200 females per hashtag were then coded on demographic factors, body shape, activity, objectification, and practice of yoga. Results showed that over 90 % of women in the images were coded as being under 40 years of age with the vast majority in their 20 s. Almost three-quarters of women were perceived to be white, 100 % appeared able bodied. More than 80 % were classed as thin and/or athletic, while less than 15 % displayed average levels of visible body fat. More than 50 % of yoga poses were advanced while a quarter displayed potentially unsafe alignment. The findings demonstrate that the typical 'yoga body' on Instagram was perceived to conform to the young, thin/athletic ideal and that overall yoga is not being represented as an inclusive physical practice that can be adapted for women of diverse ages, body types, and abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Research has addressed the usefulness of psychosocial strategies within physiotherapy, as part of a biopsychosocial model. A lack of current research in Australia concerning the views of physiotherapists, from a range of practice areas, regarding a variety of strategies, suggests the need for broader exploration. Methods: This research employed a cross-sectional survey asking Australian physiotherapists (n = 251) to rate their perceived importance and perceived benefits of psychosocial strategies; perceived positive effects on rehabilitation outcomes and adherence; confidence in applying strategies, and perceived benefits of further training. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Crosstabs with Chi-Squared Tests of Contingencies and Spearman's Rank-Order Correlations. Results: Physiotherapists reported that having knowledge of such strategies was important and considered them beneficial for practice. Respondents rated highly their perceived knowledge about goal setting and positive reinforcement, both of which were reported as most used in practice. Approximately one quarter of physiotherapists reported using cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. Physiotherapists communicated a lack of confidence to apply psychosocial strategies in their practice, and desired further training. Conclusion: Physiotherapists could benefit from tailored instruction regarding psychosocial strategies at a level appropriate to, and within their scope of practice. This could enhance their practice from a biopsychosocial perspective, subsequently improving outcomes for their patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are documented within refugee populations. Although research supports effectiveness of trauma-focused cognitive behaviour therapy (TF-CBT) among Western populations, little research exists for its efficacy among refugees living in camps and settlements in developing nations. Aims: To investigate whether a culturally sensitive, group-based TF-CBT programme (EMPOWER) delivered in a Ugandan refugee settlement effectively reduced refugees' post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), and whether sociodemographic factors, trauma characteristics, or PTSS severity related to programme completion or treatment outcomes. Method and Results: Data linkages were conducted on information provided by 174 Congolese refugees living in a Ugandan settlement (mean age = 33.4 years, SD = 11.7; 49% male). Using a quasi-experimental design, participants who initially completed the intervention (n = 43) delivered across nine 90-minute sessions, reported significant reductions in self-reported PTSS with a large effect size. The delayed treatment group (n = 55) also reported significant treatment gains once they received the intervention. Participants who completed the programme reported significantly greater initial PTSS severity than those who dropped out, while no sociodemographic factors, trauma characteristics or PTSS were associated with better treatment outcomes. Discussion: A culturally sensitive, group-based TF-CBT programme delivered in a refugee settlement meaningfully reduces refugees' PTSS severity and is equally effective for all participants, with the highest retention rates found among those in greatest need of treatment. Programmes such as this, with capacity to treat hundreds of people simultaneously, represent highly cost-effective, accessible, disseminable and effective treatment for PTSS among refugees living in humanitarian settings in developing nations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of imagery to improve golf performance is well established and recognised as a key psychological technique in developing and maintaining excellence. However, the relationship between a golfer's imagery ability and their imagery use is still poorly understood. The current study examined differences in participants vividness of movement imagery and imagery use and the extent their vividness of movement imagery predicted functions of imagery use. One hundred and one male skilled golfers (Mage=27.80, SD=11.03) with CONGU recognised handicaps ranging from plus 4 to 5 (Mhandicap=1.32, SD=2.74) completed both the Vividness of Movement Imagery Questionnaire-2 (Roberts, R., Callow, N., Hardy, L., Markland, D., & Bringer, J. (2008). Movement imagery ability: Development and assessment of a revised version of the vividness of movement imagery questionnaire. Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology, 30(2), 200–221) and Sports Imagery Questionnaire (Hall, C. R., Mack, D. E., Paivio, A., & Hauesenblas, H. A. (1998). Imagery use by athletes: Development of the sport imagery questionnaire. International Journal of Sport Psychology, 29, 73–89). The results demonstrated no significant differences between Internal and External visual imagery, however, Kinaesthetic imagery scores were significantly higher than External visual imagery scores. Significant differences in imagery use were recorded with participants reporting higher Cognitive specific imagery use scores compared to other functions of imagery use. Regression analyses indicted that golf handicap accounted for 12% in the variance of Cognitive specific imagery use with an additional 12% accounted for by Internal visual imagery and 7% Kinaesthetic imagery. For Cognitive general imagery use golf handicap accounted for 4% of the variance with Internal visual imagery adding a further 5% to the model. Our findings highlight that vividness of movement imagery; specifically, Internal and Kinaesthetic imagery ability are significant predictors of skilled golfers Cognitive specific and Cognitive general imagery use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research in sports-science disciplines such as sport psychology has demonstrated that practitioners' physical characteristics influence clients' perceptions of their effectiveness, potentially mediating the efficacy of subsequent interventions. However, very little research has been directed toward this issue for sports dietitians (SDs), the health professionals whom athletes are likely to engage to assist with manipulation of traits of physique. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation was to determine whether SDs' phenotype, specifically body-mass index (BMI), and type of dress influence potential clients' preference to consult them for dietetic support and if this affects their perceived effectiveness. Methods: One hundred volunteers (mean age 18.7 ± 0 .8 years) all participating in regular competitive sport, classified by gender (male, n = 55, or female, n = 45) and competitive standard (elite/subelite, n = 68, or club/recreational, n = 32) viewed slides representing four concurrently presented computer-generated images of the same female SD manipulated to represent different BMIs and dress types. Participants were asked to rank the SDs in order of their preference to work with them and, second, to rate their perceived effectiveness of each of the SDs. Results: Key findings included the observation of a significant BMI main effect F(6, 91) = 387.39, p < .001 (effect size .96), with participants' ranking of preference and rating of perceived effectiveness of female SDs decreasing with increasing BMI. Conclusion: SDs should consider their physical appearance when meeting with athletes, as this may affect their perceived efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimal research has examined psychological processes underpinning ultra-marathon runners' performance. This study examined the relationships between mental toughness and self-efficacy with performance in an elite sample of ultra-marathon runners competing in the 2019 Hawaiian Ultra Running Team's Trail 100-mile endurance run (HURT100). The Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ) and the Endurance Sport Self-Efficacy Scale (ESSES) were completed by 56 elite ultra-marathon runners in the HURT100 (38 males, 18 females; Mage = 38.86 years, SDage = 9.23). Findings revealed mental toughness and self-efficacy are highly related constructs (r(54) = 0.72, p < 0.001). Mental toughness and self-efficacy did not significantly relate to ultra-marathon performance (mental toughness and self-efficacy with Ultra-Trail World Tour (UTWT) rank F(2, 53) = 0.738, p = 0.483; mental toughness and self-efficacy with likelihood would finish the HURT100 χ2 = 0.56, p = 0.756; mental toughness and self-efficacy with HURT100 placing and time F(2, 53) = 1.738, p = 0.186 and F(2, 30) = 2.046, p = 0.147, respectively). However, participants had significantly and meaningfully higher mental toughness (M = 45.42, SD = 4.26, medium and large effect sizes) than athletes from other sports previously published. Our interpretation is that these results taken in conjunction, suggest a threshold of mental toughness that performers require to be of the standard needed to be able to prepare for and compete in elite ultra-marathon events such as the HURT100; once this mental toughness threshold is met, other factors are likely to be more influential in determining elite level ultra-marathon performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the increasing popularity of beach soccer, few studies have examined goal scoring strategies during match-play. The aims of this study were to examine the different types of goals scored during an international tournament and determine what type of goals were associated with team performance. Twelve national teams were analysed across 52 matches in all phases of the 2018 European Beach Soccer League tournament. Observational data collection was conducted through video analysis of all 422 goals scored throughout the tournament. Chi-square analyses revealed a significant difference in the type of goals scored x2 (72) = 102, p =0.01. Further, the amount of goals scored from a set-play were significantly higher than all other goal-scoring strategies (p = 0.001). The amount of goals scored from goalkeeper-line defence were significantly lower than all other goal-scoring strategies (p = 0.001). The percentage of goalkeeper-line goals was significantly related to total tournament points [F(2, 10) = 7.242, p = 0.023, R2 = 0.42]. These data indicate that teams employing the goalkeeper-line strategy, where the goalkeeper plays outfield to serve as a numerical advantage, was associated with increases in scoring opportunities and team performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to determine what physiotherapists perceive are the benefits of using psychosocial strategies in their own practice, and whether perceived barriers extend beyond practitioner and contextual barriers. Methods: Content analysis of two open‐ended questions was conducted. Australian physiotherapists (n = 206) provided written comments. Results: Three key categories of benefits emerged: patient benefits, shared patient and physiotherapist benefits, and physiotherapist benefits. Patient benefits included improved rehabilitation experience, improved patient wellbeing and improvement of psychosocial responses. Specifically, increased patient enjoyment, improved self‐management and improved understanding of the links between their physical and psychological health. Therapeutic alliance appeared as a shared patient and physiotherapist benefit, with specific reference to enhanced partnerships and improved patient‐centred practice. Physiotherapist benefits comprised of improved needs assessment and occupational benefits such as reduced load. Three key categories of physiotherapist barriers, contextual barriers, and patient barriers emerged. Time, knowledge, confidence, lack of expertise, and limited formal training, were the main barriers, specifically a lack of practical training, and for more complex strategies. Physiotherapists acknowledged patient barriers such as patient resistance, lack of understanding, and complex mental health needs. Conclusions: These findings contribute novel information with regard to the benefits and barriers of psychosocial approaches from a physiotherapist perspective. Physiotherapists may benefit from further support in their use of psychosocial approaches, to emphasize the benefits for their own practice. Furthermore, to potentially reduce patient barriers and improve outcomes, patient education concerning a biopsychosocial model of care could be valuable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to compare systemic O2 utilization (V̇O2), and changes in tissue O2 extraction [deoxyhemoglobin (△HHb)] in the vastus lateralis (VL), gastrocnemius (GAST) and pre-frontal cortex (PFC) tissue; between aerobically short-term trained (STT) and long-term trained (LTT) older men (40 - 60 yr) who were matched for current training load. On separate occasions, 14 STT and 14 LTT participants completed ramp incremental (RI) and square-wave constant load (SWCL) tests on a cycle ergometer. In LTT compared to STT; (i) V̇O2 was higher during the RI (p > 0.001) and SWCL (p > 0.001) tests, (ii) △HHb in the GAST was greater in SWCL (p = 0.011); and (iii) △HHb in the PFC was greater at 90% GET during SWCL (p = 0.011). The additional years of training in LTT compared to STT (LTT 17.50yr ± 6.94yr vs STT 1.68yr ± 0.31yr) were associated with higher V̇O2peak, and sub-GET V̇O2, and △HHb in the GAST and PFC at sub-GET exercise, despite there being no difference in current training volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Sport‐related concussion (SRC) is a multi‐faceted issue that should be considered in context, with consideration for the biological, psychological, and sociocultural (i.e., biopsychosocial) factors which influence the incidence of injury in contact sports such as rugby union (rugby). Through the concurrent assessment of individual variables within a multi‐measure cross‐sectional research design, the current study aimed to contextualise the individual factors associated with SRC in male junior (ages 11–17 years) rugby. Method: Self‐ and parent‐report measures were used to assess athletes' psychological and behavioural functioning. Sociocultural influences were considered in terms of duration of participation, involvement of immediate family, and participation in other sports. Biological measures included athlete age, BMI, aerobic fitness, and in‐utero testosterone exposure (2D:4D). Results: Athlete age was positively correlated with concussion incidence, with adolescent (14–17‐year‐old) athletes 1.4 times more likely to report a history of SRC than pre‐adolescent (11–13‐year‐old) athletes. Multi‐sport participation and immediate family participation were found to positively predict SRC incidence. No psychological measures were identified as significant correlates to concussive injury, however, this may be due to the homogeneity of the sample scores. Conclusions: The concurrent assessment of biopsychosocial factors associated with SRC presents the opportunity for a comprehensive analysis of the injury context. The findings from this study suggest that SRC in junior rugby cannot be predicted using individual variables. Future research directions are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has reported that initial evaluations of consultants' competency are affected by dress and build. This investigation examined how athletes' perceptions of sport psychology consultants (SPCs) are affected by SPCs' physical characteristics of BMI and dress, and whether these perceptions are moderated by the athletes' sex or standard of competition. Two hundred and thirty three competitive sports volunteers classified by sex and competitive standard viewed computer generated images of the same female SPC in sports and formal attire manipulated to represent a range of body mass indexes. Participants were asked to rank the SPCs in order of their preference to work with them, and to rate their perceived effectiveness of each of the SPCs. Results demonstrated that SPCs' physical characteristics do influence athletes' preference to work with them and perceptions of their effectiveness. Furthermore, athlete's competitive standard does significantly moderate initial evaluation of SPCs based on physical characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychological strategies are a promising adjunct to pharmacological treatment for symptoms, including depression and anxiety associated with Parkinson's disease. In this study, we investigated perceptions and reported behaviors of occupational therapists regarding the use of psychosocial strategies during their practice with clients with Parkinson's disease. The results of a cross‐sectional online survey (n = 115 occupational therapists) demonstrated that the majority of participants (83%) reported using psychosocial strategies with their clients living with Parkinson's disease, with goal setting the most frequent. Almost all occupational therapists (99.1%) reported that it was moderately to extremely important to have knowledge about psychosocial strategies for practice with clients living with Parkinson's disease, and 96.5% rated it important to be able to offer these strategies in practice with their clients living with Parkinson's disease. The majority (91.3%) felt incorporating psychosocial strategies into their practice was moderately to extremely beneficial, and 93.9% reported that psychosocial strategies have a moderate‐to‐extremely positive effect on Parkinson's disease management outcomes. These findings have important implications for the education and training of occupational therapists working with clients living with Parkinson's disease to help ensure the best possible outcomes for people with Parkinson's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to develop a sport-specific self-report measure of metacognitive beliefs: The Metacognitive Beliefs about Performances Questionnaire (MBPQ). Firstly, principal components analysis and reliability tests showed that the MBPQ retained a reliable five-factor solution: positive beliefs about competitive worry; positive beliefs about rumination; positive beliefs about arousal; negative beliefs about competitive thinking,; and beliefs about need to control cognition. Secondly, confirmatory factor analysis, reliability and validity tests confirmed internal validity in a triathlete field sample. Thirdly, concurrent validity was also evident through analyses of bivariate correlations with existing generalised metacognitive measures (the Metacognitions Questionnaire 30; the Adapted Positive Beliefs about Rumination Scale), and through associations with state anxiety variables (cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety, thought disruption, and self-confidence). Overall, the results have conveyed the MBPQ to be a sound measure of metacognitive beliefs in competitive athletes. The implications and interactions of these subscales were discussed accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine if systemic O2 utilization (VO2) and tissue oxygen extraction (deoxyhemoglobin [HHb]) in the vastus lateralis (VL), gastrocnemius (GAST), and prefrontal cortex were different during exercise between short-term trained (STT, 6-24 months) and long-term trained (LTT, >5 years) young women while controlling for current training load. Thirteen STT and 13 LTT participants completed ramp incremental (RI) and square-wave constant load (SWCL) tests on a cycle ergometer. In LTT compared with STT: (a) VO2 was higher during the RI (p = 0.024) and SWCL (p = 0.001) tests; (b) HHb in the VL (p = 0.044) and GAST (p = 0.027) was higher in the RI test; and (c) there were significant group x intensity interactions for VO2 in the SWCL test. The additional years of aerobic training in LTT compared with STT (LTT 7.1 ± 1.9 vs. STT 1.5 ± 0.4 years) resulted in higher VO2 and HHb in the VL and GAST. These results indicate that in young women, independent of current training load, systemic VO2 and peripheral muscle O2 extraction during exercise continues to increase beyond 24 months of aerobic training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this research were to determine if metacognitive beliefs predicted Intrusive Visual Imagery (IVI) in elite athletes, and if this was consistent across performance contexts. To address these aims, 110 elite cricket and AFL players completed the 30-item metacognitions questionnaire and intrusive visual imagery questionnaire before a training session and competitive match. Regression analyses indicated that the Negative Beliefs about the Uncontrollability of Thoughts and Their Danger metacognition and Need to Control Thoughts metacognition predicted IVI in both contexts. Findings were interpreted within the Self-Regulatory Executive Function model. It was suggested that extra attentional control is exerted to prevent the conscious experience of a negative belief, which prompts an image related to the belief being experienced, which is perceived as intrusive. Results also suggested that athletes are less likely to experience IVI before competing, possibly due to greater monitoring of thoughts. Implications for these findings are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]