One of the most consistent findings in the ‘peak performance’ literature is the direct correlation (link) between high levels of self-confidence and successful sporting performance. However, even at the Olympic level, athlete confidence is reported to be susceptible to instability. Given that self-confidence in sport is so important, and yet seemingly so fragile, it is unsurprising that the study of self-confidence figures prominently in sport psychology research literature, with social cognitive theories of self-confidence providing the basis for the majority of this work. Examples include Bandura’s (1977, 1997) self-efficacy theory, and Vealey’s initial (1986) and reconceptualised (2001) models of sport confidence.
Self-efficacy One’s belief that a certain level of performance can be attained (Bandura, 1977).
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