An inhibitory retrieval approach for maximizing exposure therapy in elite sport.

Inhibitory retrieval has redefined the way that exposure therapy can help individuals cope with debilitative states of fear and anxiety. Here we propose that an inhibitory retrieval-based model of exposure therapy could also be applied to the context of sport competition. We first discuss the usefulness of applying inhibitory retrieval-based exposure to emotion regulation in sport environments and provide therapeutic strategies for adopting this approach for athletes with performance anxiety and states of fear of failure. This proposal is followed by a case description that illustrates how this inhibitory retrieval approach could be used to help athletes get better at coping with fear and anxiety during a sport competition. We conclude by providing further guidelines for helping practitioners apply the inhibitory retrieval approach while working with athletes who experience debilitative states of anxiety during sport competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]