Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) Capstone Projects
Document Type
Thesis or dissertation
Date of this Version
8-1-2015
Abstract
Many psychological constructs under the heading of Positive Psychology are important to the careers of athletes and other high level performers. Grit and optimism have both been linked to performance outcomes in multiple disciplines, and interventions have been trialed to develop these factors in individuals and groups, with varying levels of success. Using an adapted version of the Penn Resiliency Program (PRP) and Master Resilience Training (MRT) programs used to train resilience in both education and military settings, we implemented a mental toughness training intervention with a group of professional football players (n = 22) and also followed a control group (n = 13) in the same team. Results show the training was effective at increasing optimism but not grit, and had a positive impact on performance over the following season that was moderated by previous performance levels. Correlations and regression models also showed that optimism and grit together were subsequently predictive of consistency and performance. We discuss the moderating effects of the player’s pre-training level of ability as well as potential leadership effects, and offer recommendations for future research into the links between optimism, grit and performance.
Keywords
resilience, grit, optimism, mental toughness, performance, training, consistency, sport, coaching, well-being
Topic
Well-Being/Flourishing, Counselling/Coaching, Achievement, Other Topics
Format
Empirical Study, Thesis
Included in
Cognitive Psychology Commons, Other Psychology Commons, Quantitative Psychology Commons, Sports Studies Commons
Date Posted: 08 September 2015
Comments
Written by Paddy Steinfort in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Applied Positive Psychology.