First Place Proposal Category
Student: Ally Clarke
Advisor: Dr. Renae McNair
This study explores the effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in reducing performance anxiety among elite athletes qualifying for Olympic trials. A sample of 250 athletes, aged 18 to 26, representing various genders and ethnic backgrounds, participated in the study. The Three-Dimensional Performance Anxiety Inventory (3DPAI) will measure performance anxiety. Researchers would utilize random assignments to assign participants into either an experimental group receiving Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or a control group. The CBT intervention comprised twelve sessions over three months, focusing on cognitive restructuring and positive self-statements. Results indicate a significant reduction in performance anxiety among athletes who received CBT compared to the control group, suggesting the effectiveness of CBT in enhancing athletic performance. These findings suggest that CBT works as an effective intervention for enhancing athletic performance by addressing performance-related anxiety. In the future, coaches and athletes can utilize CBT practices in training for the Olympics or significant sports competitions.
Keywords: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Performance Anxiety, Olympic athletes