REBT_Elite Blind Soccer_Manuscript_Wood et al_Accepted.pdf (294.35 kB)
Download fileExploring the effects of a single rational emotive behavior therapy workshop in elite blind soccer players
journal contribution
posted on 2018-10-11, 13:19 authored by Andrew G. Wood, Jamie BarkerJamie Barker, Martin J. Turner, Peter ThomsonResearch examining the effects of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) on athletic performance is emerging. There exists however, a paucity of research exploring psychological interventions within specialized sport populations. Our present study investigated the effects of a single REBT workshop, including intellectual and practical insight into the ABC(DE) framework on psychological, physiological, and performance markers within an elite blind soccer team. Using a within-participant pretest-posttest crossover design in an ecologically valid setting, data indicated small and immediate reductions in irrational beliefs, perceived helpfulness of pre-performance anxiety, and physiological markers (i.e., Systolic Blood Pressure) prior to a penalty-kick simulation. However, no substantial changes were shown in penalty-kick performance. In sum, although the findings elucidate some benefits of a single REBT workshop, the educational insight into the ABC(DE) framework was deemed insufficient for meaningful changes in outcome measures. Practical implications and recommendations for future researchers are discussed.
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