Evaluate one or more examples of psychological research relevant to sport psychology.

Refer to the paper 2 assessment criteria when awarding marks.

The command term “evaluate” requires candidates to make an appraisal of one or more psychological research theories/studies relevant to the study of sport psychology by weighing up the strengths and the limitations of each. Although a discussion of both strengths and limitations is required, it does not have to be evenly balanced to gain high marks.

Relevant psychological research may include, but is not limited to:

• goal setting behaviour (Hochstetler et al. 1985)
• arousal and anxiety as they are related to performance (eg inverted U theory)
• relationships between team cohesion and performance and the role of the coach (Chase et al. 1997)
• athlete response to stress and/or chronic injury (Anderson and Williams, 1999)
• burnout in sport (Smith, 1986; Gould et al. 1996).

Evaluation of the selected research may include, but is not limited to:

• methodological considerations
• cultural and gender considerations
• the accuracy and clarity of the concepts
• contrary findings or explanations
• the applications of the empirical findings.

Candidates may evaluate one or a small number of studies/theories to demonstrate depth of knowledge, or may evaluate a larger number of studies/theories to demonstrate breadth of knowledge. Both approaches are equally acceptable.

If a candidate discusses only strengths or only limitations, the response should be awarded up to a maximum of [5] for criterion B, critical thinking, and up to a maximum of [2] for criterion C, organization. Up to full marks may be awarded for criterion A, knowledge and comprehension.