While the scientific field of sport and exercise psychology is clearly advancing, it continues, like many scientific disciplines, to be shaped by persistent and well-documented gender inequities. From composition of research teams and academic outputs, leadership positions, and ultimately career progression (e.g., hitting the academic ‘glass ceiling’), evidence suggests that women are disproportionately disadvantaged. The underrepresentation of women in the field is not simply a matter of fairness; it has far-reaching consequences for science, for women's careers, and for the broader public who benefit from evidence-informed practices. Despite a growing awareness of these issues, there remains a lack of clarity on how those in the field can best support women and address these inequities. The ambition of this commentary is to highlight: (1) the impacts of gender inequity and barriers women face in the field and academia more broadly; (2) how current evaluation systems (bibliometrics, leader boards) perpetuate inequity; and (3) existing initiatives in the field to address gender inequity and provide recommendations for change in the field of sport and exercise psychology - many of which offer relevance to other academic areas.
{"title":"From glass cliffs to glass ceilings: What can we do to support women working in the academic field of sport and exercise psychology?","authors":"Megan Teychenne , Thea Baker , Grace McKeon , Francine Darroch , Andréa Deslandes , Amanda J. Daley , Anonymous Woman , Amanda Rebar","doi":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103084","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103084","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>While the scientific field of sport and exercise psychology is clearly advancing, it continues, like many scientific disciplines, to be shaped by persistent and well-documented gender inequities. From composition of research teams and academic outputs, leadership positions, and ultimately career progression (e.g., hitting the academic ‘glass ceiling’), evidence suggests that women are disproportionately disadvantaged. The underrepresentation of women in the field is not simply a matter of fairness; it has far-reaching consequences for science, for women's careers, and for the broader public who benefit from evidence-informed practices. Despite a growing awareness of these issues, there remains a lack of clarity on how those in the field can best support women and address these inequities. The ambition of this commentary is to highlight: (1) the impacts of gender inequity and barriers women face in the field and academia more broadly; (2) how current evaluation systems (bibliometrics, leader boards) perpetuate inequity; and (3) existing initiatives in the field to address gender inequity and provide recommendations for change in the field of sport and exercise psychology - many of which offer relevance to other academic areas.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54536,"journal":{"name":"Psychology of Sport and Exercise","volume":"84 ","pages":"Article 103084"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146081256","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-01-21DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103061
Wen Chen , Yue Yang , Shan He , Xinyu Liu , Xiru Du , Min Hu , Ting Liu , Lu Leng , Junhao Huang
Purpose
While mindfulness has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing executive function in non-athletes through improved present-moment awareness and acceptance of current experiences, particularly regarding attention regulation and cognitive control, its neurocognitive mechanisms and the effects and underlying mechanisms of mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) on different executive functioning skills in athletic populations remain poorly understood. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial tackles a novel and important topic by investigating the beneficial effects of 12-week MBI on executive functioning skills in baseball players—a population that faces unique cognitive and physical demands, and the associated neurophysiological and biochemical regulation mechanisms.
Methods
Thirty-four baseball players were randomly divided into the MBI group (11M/6F) and the control group (11M/6F). Executive functioning skills (N-back task for working memory, Stroop task for inhibitory control, and Switching task for cognitive flexibility) were tested before and after the intervention. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to record quantified hemodynamic responses in the prefrontal cortex through oxygenated hemoglobin concentration (Oxy-Hb) monitoring during the performance of executive function tasks. Biomarkers of cognitive function, including BDNF, IL-6, TNF-α, and Cortisol, were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA).
Results
MBI partially improved all three executive function skills, with increased Oxy-Hb level in L-FPA during the task of working memory, increased Oxy-Hb level in R-VLPFC during the task of inhibitory control, and decreased Oxy-Hb level in R-FPA, M-FPA, and L-DLPFC during the task of cognitive flexibility. Furthermore, MBI increased circulating BDNF level and decreased IL-6 and Cortisol levels. In addition, our correlation analyses showed that improvement in executive function (improved behavioral performances and changes in Oxy-Hb levels) were associated with changes in Cortisol and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6).
Conclusion
A 12-week MBI partially improved three components of executive function in baseball players. This enhancement may be attributed to the MBI-induced reductions in Cortisol and inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α and IL-6), which altered blood oxygen contents in specific brain regions, thereby promoting executive function.
{"title":"Effects of 12-week mindfulness-based intervention on executive functioning skills, brain oxygenation, and biomarkers of cognitive function in baseball players: a randomized controlled trial","authors":"Wen Chen , Yue Yang , Shan He , Xinyu Liu , Xiru Du , Min Hu , Ting Liu , Lu Leng , Junhao Huang","doi":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103061","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103061","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>While mindfulness has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing executive function in non-athletes through improved present-moment awareness and acceptance of current experiences, particularly regarding attention regulation and cognitive control, its neurocognitive mechanisms and the effects and underlying mechanisms of mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) on different executive functioning skills in athletic populations remain poorly understood. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial tackles a novel and important topic by investigating the beneficial effects of 12-week MBI on executive functioning skills in baseball players—a population that faces unique cognitive and physical demands, and the associated neurophysiological and biochemical regulation mechanisms.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Thirty-four baseball players were randomly divided into the MBI group (11M/6F) and the control group (11M/6F). Executive functioning skills (N-back task for working memory, Stroop task for inhibitory control, and Switching task for cognitive flexibility) were tested before and after the intervention. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to record quantified hemodynamic responses in the prefrontal cortex through oxygenated hemoglobin concentration (Oxy-Hb) monitoring during the performance of executive function tasks. Biomarkers of cognitive function, including BDNF, IL-6, TNF-α, and Cortisol, were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>MBI partially improved all three executive function skills, with increased Oxy-Hb level in L-FPA during the task of working memory, increased Oxy-Hb level in R-VLPFC during the task of inhibitory control, and decreased Oxy-Hb level in R-FPA, M-FPA, and L-DLPFC during the task of cognitive flexibility. Furthermore, MBI increased circulating BDNF level and decreased IL-6 and Cortisol levels. In addition, our correlation analyses showed that improvement in executive function (improved behavioral performances and changes in Oxy-Hb levels) were associated with changes in Cortisol and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>A 12-week MBI partially improved three components of executive function in baseball players. This enhancement may be attributed to the MBI-induced reductions in Cortisol and inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α and IL-6), which altered blood oxygen contents in specific brain regions, thereby promoting executive function.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54536,"journal":{"name":"Psychology of Sport and Exercise","volume":"84 ","pages":"Article 103061"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146042410","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-02-05DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103086
Matthew Bourke , Kathryn Fortnum , Sara King-Dowling , MatthewY.W. Kwan , John Cairney
This study explored the interplay between actual and perceived motor competence and their associations with physical activity and fitness among children with and without risk of developmental coordination disorder (DCD). Utilizing data from 479 children aged 7–9 years from the CATCH cohort, latent profile analysis identified four distinct profiles based on Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC-2) and the Perceived Efficacy and Goals Setting System (PEGS). Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was assessed through waist worn accelerometers, and fitness was assessed using the Bruce protocol, Wingate anaerobic cycling test, and standing long jump. Four latent profiles were identified including low-aligned (7.1%; low actual and perceived competence), over-perceivers (53.0%; low actual but above-average perceived competence), average-aligned (20.0%), and high-aligned (19.8%). Children in the low-aligned profile engaged in significantly less moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and demonstrated poorer physical fitness than children in all other profiles. Notably, over-perceivers exhibited MVPA levels comparable to children with average and high motor competence, despite their low actual competence. However, fitness levels remained lower among all children with reduced actual motor competence, regardless of perceived competence. These findings suggest that perceived motor competence may buffer against low motor competence-related declines in physical activity, though not in physical fitness. Findings highlight the potential utility of targeting perceived competence in motor skill interventions, particularly among children at risk of DCD, to enhance physical activity engagement. Interventions that simultaneously address actual and perceived competence may offer a promising strategy to support physical development in this population.
{"title":"Identifying latent profiles of actual and perceived motor competence among children at risk of developmental coordination disorder and their peers: Associations with physical activity and fitness","authors":"Matthew Bourke , Kathryn Fortnum , Sara King-Dowling , MatthewY.W. Kwan , John Cairney","doi":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103086","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103086","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study explored the interplay between actual and perceived motor competence and their associations with physical activity and fitness among children with and without risk of developmental coordination disorder (DCD). Utilizing data from 479 children aged 7–9 years from the CATCH cohort, latent profile analysis identified four distinct profiles based on Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC-2) and the Perceived Efficacy and Goals Setting System (PEGS). Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was assessed through waist worn accelerometers, and fitness was assessed using the Bruce protocol, Wingate anaerobic cycling test, and standing long jump. Four latent profiles were identified including low-aligned (7.1%; low actual and perceived competence), over-perceivers (53.0%; low actual but above-average perceived competence), average-aligned (20.0%), and high-aligned (19.8%). Children in the low-aligned profile engaged in significantly less moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and demonstrated poorer physical fitness than children in all other profiles. Notably, over-perceivers exhibited MVPA levels comparable to children with average and high motor competence, despite their low actual competence. However, fitness levels remained lower among all children with reduced actual motor competence, regardless of perceived competence. These findings suggest that perceived motor competence may buffer against low motor competence-related declines in physical activity, though not in physical fitness. Findings highlight the potential utility of targeting perceived competence in motor skill interventions, particularly among children at risk of DCD, to enhance physical activity engagement. Interventions that simultaneously address actual and perceived competence may offer a promising strategy to support physical development in this population.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54536,"journal":{"name":"Psychology of Sport and Exercise","volume":"84 ","pages":"Article 103086"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146138101","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-01-29DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103082
Francis Marsh , Lee-Ann Sharp , David Woods , Kyle Paradis , Scott Pierce
Migrating dual career (DC) athletes may experience multiple transition events in sport and non-sport aspects of their lives. How successfully these are navigated can alter their career trajectory. This study combined holistic development and ecological approaches to explore Irish DC athlete perceptions of: (a) their transition to the US collegiate system throughout three transition phases and (b) changes in the support system in their transition environment. Through purposeful sampling, 11 participants were recruited from eight different sports (American Football N = 1; Basketball N = 1; Cross-country N = 2; Golf N = 2; Rowing N = 1; Tennis N = 1; Track & Field N = 1; Soccer N = 2; N = 4 females; N = 7 males; Mage = 20.04 years; SD = 1.88 years). A total of 36 individual semi-structured interviews, averaging 46.93 min (SD = 9.79 min), were conducted across three time points spanning 12 months. This rich experiential data was then examined using reflexive thematic analysis. Three first-order themes synthesized the Irish DC athlete transition journey through three phases, from scholarship dreams to reality; coping with the demands of being a student-athlete; and learning how to progress. Twelve second-order themes characterize salient elements of the DC athletes transition experiences through the three phases. Findings were examined adopting theoretical athlete transition models taking holistic, ecological and cultural perspectives. Findings informed a number of practical recommendations to assist successful athlete transitions which include improving: i) pre-transition phase preparation resources for DC athletes; ii) liaison between home and US collegiate coaches toward the DC athlete's holistic development; iii) DC athlete transition literacy; and iv) mental health and sport psychological professional support to those most likely experiencing crisis transition events.
{"title":"Irish dual career athlete transitions into the US collegiate system","authors":"Francis Marsh , Lee-Ann Sharp , David Woods , Kyle Paradis , Scott Pierce","doi":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103082","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103082","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Migrating dual career (DC) athletes may experience multiple transition events in sport and non-sport aspects of their lives. How successfully these are navigated can alter their career trajectory. This study combined holistic development and ecological approaches to explore Irish DC athlete perceptions of: (a) their transition to the US collegiate system throughout three transition phases and (b) changes in the support system in their transition environment. Through purposeful sampling, 11 participants were recruited from eight different sports (American Football <em>N</em> = 1; Basketball <em>N</em> = 1; Cross-country <em>N</em> = 2; Golf <em>N</em> = 2; Rowing <em>N</em> = 1; Tennis <em>N</em> = 1; Track & Field <em>N</em> = 1; Soccer <em>N</em> = 2; <em>N</em> = 4 females; <em>N</em> = 7 males; <em>M</em><sub><em>age</em></sub> = 20.04 years; <em>SD</em> = 1.88 years). A total of 36 individual semi-structured interviews, averaging 46.93 min (<em>SD</em> = 9.79 min), were conducted across three time points spanning 12 months. This rich experiential data was then examined using reflexive thematic analysis. Three first-order themes synthesized the Irish DC athlete transition journey through three phases, <em>from scholarship dreams to reality; coping with the demands of being a student-athlete; and learning how to progress</em>. Twelve second-order themes characterize salient elements of the DC athletes transition experiences through the three phases. Findings were examined adopting theoretical athlete transition models taking holistic, ecological and cultural perspectives. Findings informed a number of practical recommendations to assist successful athlete transitions which include improving: i) pre-transition phase preparation resources for DC athletes; ii) liaison between home and US collegiate coaches toward the DC athlete's holistic development; iii) DC athlete transition literacy; and iv) mental health and sport psychological professional support to those most likely experiencing crisis transition events.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54536,"journal":{"name":"Psychology of Sport and Exercise","volume":"84 ","pages":"Article 103082"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146097706","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-01-23DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103079
Alice Valdesalici , Enrico Sella , Riccardo Domenicucci , Marta Ghisi , Erika Borella
This systematic review aims to evaluate the impact of dysfunctional aspects of overtraining, specifically non-functional overreaching (NFOR) and overtraining syndrome (OTS), on psychological and cognitive functioning among elite athletes. Elite athletes face unique stressors, including rigorous training and persistent competitive pressures. However, previous reviews have not differentiated between athletic profiles, such as elite versus non-elite athletes. Following PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review searched four electronic databases for studies involving elite athletes aged 18 or older who had undergone interventions leading to NFOR or OTS and assessed psychological or cognitive outcomes. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated. Out of 2232 articles, 11 studies were included: seven focused on OTS, three on NFOR, and two on both NFOR/OTS, involving 461 participants. All the studies assessed at least one psychological outcome, showing alterations in mood, stress, burnout, and fatigue among elite athletes experiencing NFOR or OTS. However, the available evidence on psychological well-being was limited and showed considerable heterogeneity. Evidence on cognitive outcomes was limited and focused mainly on the domain of cognitive inhibition. Impairments in cognitive inhibitory control may occur only in the context of OTS, while no clear deficits were observed in athletes experiencing NFOR. In conclusion, this review highlights the detrimental effects of NFOR and, especially, OTS on elite athletes' psychological and cognitive health, emphasizing the need for targeted research and effective strategies to support athletes’ performance and well-being.
{"title":"Effects of non-functional overreaching and overtraining syndrome on psychological and cognitive functioning in elite athletes: A systematic review","authors":"Alice Valdesalici , Enrico Sella , Riccardo Domenicucci , Marta Ghisi , Erika Borella","doi":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103079","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103079","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This systematic review aims to evaluate the impact of dysfunctional aspects of overtraining, specifically non-functional overreaching (NFOR) and overtraining syndrome (OTS), on psychological and cognitive functioning among elite athletes. Elite athletes face unique stressors, including rigorous training and persistent competitive pressures. However, previous reviews have not differentiated between athletic profiles, such as elite versus non-elite athletes. Following PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review searched four electronic databases for studies involving elite athletes aged 18 or older who had undergone interventions leading to NFOR or OTS and assessed psychological or cognitive outcomes. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated. Out of 2232 articles, 11 studies were included: seven focused on OTS, three on NFOR, and two on both NFOR/OTS, involving 461 participants. All the studies assessed at least one psychological outcome, showing alterations in mood, stress, burnout, and fatigue among elite athletes experiencing NFOR or OTS. However, the available evidence on psychological well-being was limited and showed considerable heterogeneity. Evidence on cognitive outcomes was limited and focused mainly on the domain of cognitive inhibition. Impairments in cognitive inhibitory control may occur only in the context of OTS, while no clear deficits were observed in athletes experiencing NFOR. In conclusion, this review highlights the detrimental effects of NFOR and, especially, OTS on elite athletes' psychological and cognitive health, emphasizing the need for targeted research and effective strategies to support athletes’ performance and well-being.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54536,"journal":{"name":"Psychology of Sport and Exercise","volume":"84 ","pages":"Article 103079"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146044329","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-02-02DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103088
Shanshan Xu , Caifeng Zhao , Liang Hu
Background
The effectiveness of exercise on executive functions and core symptoms in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remains unclear. This study aimed to synthesize existing evidence on the effects of both acute and chronic exercise on these outcomes.
Methods
We systematically searched Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO from inception to April 18, 2025. Studies that implemented acute or chronic exercise interventions targeting either executive functions or core symptoms in adults with ADHD were included. Only parallel-group randomized controlled trials and crossover trials with non-exercise control conditions were eligible for meta-analysis.
Results
Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria for systematic review, with eight studies included in the meta-analysis. Acute exercise interventions exerted a moderate positive effect on inhibitory control (Hedges' g = 0.55, 95% CI [0.32, 0.79], p < 0.001), and a small beneficial effect on core symptoms (Hedges' g = 0.23, 95% CI [0.03, 0.43], p = 0.024) in adults with ADHD. For chronic exercise interventions, qualitative synthesis of existing evidence suggested mixed results, which highlights the need for further research.
Conclusions
This study provides preliminary evidence on the potential role of exercise as a nonpharmacological strategy for improving executive functions and core symptoms in adults with ADHD.
背景：运动对成人注意缺陷多动障碍（ADHD）执行功能和核心症状的影响尚不清楚。这项研究旨在综合现有的证据，证明急性和慢性运动对这些结果的影响。方法：系统检索Web of Science、PubMed、Embase、Cochrane Library和PsycINFO自网站成立至2025年4月18日。包括针对ADHD成人执行功能或核心症状实施急性或慢性运动干预的研究。只有平行组随机对照试验和非运动对照条件下的交叉试验才有资格进行meta分析。结果：14项研究符合系统评价的纳入标准，其中8项研究纳入meta分析。急性运动干预对成人ADHD患者的抑制控制有中度的积极作用（Hedges' g = 0.55, 95% CI [0.32, 0.79], p < 0.001），对核心症状有轻微的有益作用（Hedges' g = 0.23, 95% CI [0.03, 0.43], p = 0.024）。对于慢性运动干预，现有证据的定性综合表明结果好坏参半，这突出了进一步研究的必要性。结论：本研究为运动作为一种非药物策略改善ADHD成人执行功能和核心症状的潜在作用提供了初步证据。
{"title":"The effects of acute and chronic exercise on executive functions and core symptoms in adults with ADHD: A systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Shanshan Xu , Caifeng Zhao , Liang Hu","doi":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103088","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103088","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The effectiveness of exercise on executive functions and core symptoms in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remains unclear. This study aimed to synthesize existing evidence on the effects of both acute and chronic exercise on these outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We systematically searched Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO from inception to April 18, 2025. Studies that implemented acute or chronic exercise interventions targeting either executive functions or core symptoms in adults with ADHD were included. Only parallel-group randomized controlled trials and crossover trials with non-exercise control conditions were eligible for meta-analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria for systematic review, with eight studies included in the meta-analysis. Acute exercise interventions exerted a moderate positive effect on inhibitory control (Hedges' g = 0.55, 95% CI [0.32, 0.79], <em>p</em> < 0.001), and a small beneficial effect on core symptoms (Hedges' g = 0.23, 95% CI [0.03, 0.43], <em>p</em> = 0.024) in adults with ADHD. For chronic exercise interventions, qualitative synthesis of existing evidence suggested mixed results, which highlights the need for further research.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This study provides preliminary evidence on the potential role of exercise as a nonpharmacological strategy for improving executive functions and core symptoms in adults with ADHD.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54536,"journal":{"name":"Psychology of Sport and Exercise","volume":"84 ","pages":"Article 103088"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146121584","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-01-21DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103081
Jae Hyeon Jo, Hyun Joung Jin
This study examines pitch-location patterns and investigates how these patterns may reflect simplified evaluative cues employed by Major League Baseball batteries—pitchers and catchers. We analyze pitch-level data from the 2002–2024 seasons to examine the relative effects of traditional batting statistics, such as home runs and runs batted in, and advanced metrics, such as weighted runs created plus and wins above replacement (WAR), on out-of-zone pitch rates. The results show that traditional statistics, particularly home runs, exert a stronger influence on pitch location, consistent with the availability and representativeness heuristics. Several advanced measures, such as WAR and batting runs, also significantly affect pitch decisions, indicating that they contribute to the battery's evaluative framework. Rather than a strict divide, the evidence points to a relative weighting: under time pressure and cognitive load, traditional statistics are more cognitively accessible and therefore more influential in shaping tactical choices. These findings suggest a potential behavioral–analytical gap between organizational analytics and on-field decision-making, pointing to possible implications for coaching, scouting, and performance management.
{"title":"Strategic pitching decisions and the role of heuristics in major league baseball","authors":"Jae Hyeon Jo, Hyun Joung Jin","doi":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103081","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103081","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study examines pitch-location patterns and investigates how these patterns may reflect simplified evaluative cues employed by Major League Baseball batteries—pitchers and catchers. We analyze pitch-level data from the 2002–2024 seasons to examine the relative effects of traditional batting statistics, such as home runs and runs batted in, and advanced metrics, such as weighted runs created plus and wins above replacement (WAR), on out-of-zone pitch rates. The results show that traditional statistics, particularly home runs, exert a stronger influence on pitch location, consistent with the availability and representativeness heuristics. Several advanced measures, such as WAR and batting runs, also significantly affect pitch decisions, indicating that they contribute to the battery's evaluative framework. Rather than a strict divide, the evidence points to a relative weighting: under time pressure and cognitive load, traditional statistics are more cognitively accessible and therefore more influential in shaping tactical choices. These findings suggest a potential behavioral–analytical gap between organizational analytics and on-field decision-making, pointing to possible implications for coaching, scouting, and performance management.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54536,"journal":{"name":"Psychology of Sport and Exercise","volume":"84 ","pages":"Article 103081"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146039879","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-01-31DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103085
Ashley Montero , Murray Drummond , John Baranoff , Robert Adams
Women's gymnastics demands early entry, specialisation, and substantial time commitment. Exclusive emphasis on athletic performance and demanding training regimes can hinder the establishment of a balanced life during childhood and may lead to difficulties following retirement, including identity loss, lack of direction and sense of purpose, and social alienation. Although previous research has extensively explored issues related to female gymnasts' athletic identity, body image, and eating behaviours following retirement, aspects such as sleep, education, and support post-retirement have been overlooked. This oversight is particularly significant given the early retirement age in gymnastics and the role of sleep in physiological development. Therefore, thirteen female ex-gymnasts were recruited and participated in one-on-one semi-structured interviews to better understand the challenges they face in relation to their sleep and mental health. Four key themes were identified using reflexive thematic analysis: (i) abuse of the coach-athlete relationship (coach originated pressures culminate into poor wellbeing); (ii) drastic lifestyle, social, and physical change after retirement (transition out of sport impacting identity, sleep, and mental health); (iii) inadequate education and support (insufficient resources and support, and misinformation/lack of education surrounding mental health and sleep); and (iv) potential for change (improvement is viable with indication of imminent change). Findings indicate why mental health and sleep issues occur among female ex-gymnasts, suggest reasons why they are reluctant to seek help, and inform how they can be better supported. Retirement transitions may be eased through social exploration, gradual disengagement, and continued physical activity, supported by strong coach-athlete relationships and consistent, evidence-based education on sleep and mental health.
{"title":"The impact of sport retirement on mental health and sleep: A qualitative study with female ex-gymnasts","authors":"Ashley Montero , Murray Drummond , John Baranoff , Robert Adams","doi":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103085","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103085","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Women's gymnastics demands early entry, specialisation, and substantial time commitment. Exclusive emphasis on athletic performance and demanding training regimes can hinder the establishment of a balanced life during childhood and may lead to difficulties following retirement, including identity loss, lack of direction and sense of purpose, and social alienation. Although previous research has extensively explored issues related to female gymnasts' athletic identity, body image, and eating behaviours following retirement, aspects such as sleep, education, and support post-retirement have been overlooked. This oversight is particularly significant given the early retirement age in gymnastics and the role of sleep in physiological development. Therefore, thirteen female ex-gymnasts were recruited and participated in one-on-one semi-structured interviews to better understand the challenges they face in relation to their sleep and mental health. Four key themes were identified using reflexive thematic analysis: (i) abuse of the coach-athlete relationship (coach originated pressures culminate into poor wellbeing); (ii) drastic lifestyle, social, and physical change after retirement (transition out of sport impacting identity, sleep, and mental health); (iii) inadequate education and support (insufficient resources and support, and misinformation/lack of education surrounding mental health and sleep); and (iv) potential for change (improvement is viable with indication of imminent change). Findings indicate why mental health and sleep issues occur among female ex-gymnasts, suggest reasons why they are reluctant to seek help, and inform how they can be better supported. Retirement transitions may be eased through social exploration, gradual disengagement, and continued physical activity, supported by strong coach-athlete relationships and consistent, evidence-based education on sleep and mental health.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54536,"journal":{"name":"Psychology of Sport and Exercise","volume":"84 ","pages":"Article 103085"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146108777","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-02-03DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103089
Miquel Torregrossa, Yago Ramis
Career transition in sport is a consolidated topic both in academia and applied practice. In recognition of the 25th anniversary of Psychology of Sport and Exercise (PSE), Stambulova and Henriksen (2025) shared a review paper on career transitions in sport with the driving idea to bridge the holistic developmental approach (HDA) and the holistic ecological approach (HEA). In this comment we summarize their main contributions adding our perspective on the debates and future challenges proposed by the authors. Furthermore, we conclude that the bridge they propose between HDA and HEA is a bridge over calm waters, given the complementarity of the proposals, and their collaborative and constructive work, like that of most researchers and practitioners of sport working in this field.
{"title":"Bridge over calm waters: a comment on Stambulova and Henriksen's career transitions in sport","authors":"Miquel Torregrossa, Yago Ramis","doi":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103089","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103089","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Career transition in sport is a consolidated topic both in academia and applied practice. In recognition of the 25th anniversary of Psychology of Sport and Exercise (PSE), Stambulova and Henriksen (2025) shared a review paper on career transitions in sport with the driving idea to bridge the holistic developmental approach (HDA) and the holistic ecological approach (HEA). In this comment we summarize their main contributions adding our perspective on the debates and future challenges proposed by the authors. Furthermore, we conclude that the bridge they propose between HDA and HEA is a bridge over calm waters, given the complementarity of the proposals, and their collaborative and constructive work, like that of most researchers and practitioners of sport working in this field.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54536,"journal":{"name":"Psychology of Sport and Exercise","volume":"84 ","pages":"Article 103089"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146127990","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-05-01Epub Date: 2026-02-09DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103087
William M. Land , Reza Abdollahipour , Kevin A. Becker
While the advantages of an external focus of attention are well-documented, recent empirical evidence has challenged its universal superiority. Adopting an effect-based framework, we propose that the efficacy of an external focus depends on learned associations between an action and its sensory consequences (i.e., action-effect contingencies). This study directly tested if limiting the development of these associations during practice diminishes the external focus advantage. Sixty-four participants practiced an underhand ball-tossing task over two days to a 16-ft target. A Full Feedback (FF) group trained with complete visual and auditory feedback of the ball's flight and landing, allowing for the development of action-effect relationships. A Limited Feedback (LF) group trained with occluded post-release visual and auditory feedback, limiting the formation of these associations. On the third day, both groups were tested on the trained target (16-ft) and a novel transfer target (20.5-ft) under external, internal, and control focus conditions. For the trained target, the FF group demonstrated superior accuracy, consistency, and reduced bias with an external focus, whereas the LF group showed no significant differences across focus conditions. Crucially, in the transfer test, the FF group maintained superior consistency with an external focus but exhibited significantly worse accuracy and bias compared to an internal focus. These findings support an effect-based account, suggesting that external focus benefits depend on established action-effect contingencies. Furthermore, the dissociation between consistency and accuracy during transfer suggests that while an external focus can prime a motor pattern (consistency), its ability to parameterize the action (accuracy) is constrained by the specific sensory information integrated during learning. We conclude by exploring the theoretical and practical ramifications of applying an effect-based framework to understanding the principles that govern an optimal focus of attention.
{"title":"External focus benefits depend on action-effect contingencies formed during motor skill training","authors":"William M. Land , Reza Abdollahipour , Kevin A. Becker","doi":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103087","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103087","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>While the advantages of an external focus of attention are well-documented, recent empirical evidence has challenged its universal superiority. Adopting an effect-based framework, we propose that the efficacy of an external focus depends on learned associations between an action and its sensory consequences (i.e., action-effect contingencies). This study directly tested if limiting the development of these associations during practice diminishes the external focus advantage. Sixty-four participants practiced an underhand ball-tossing task over two days to a 16-ft target. A Full Feedback (FF) group trained with complete visual and auditory feedback of the ball's flight and landing, allowing for the development of action-effect relationships. A Limited Feedback (LF) group trained with occluded post-release visual and auditory feedback, limiting the formation of these associations. On the third day, both groups were tested on the trained target (16-ft) and a novel transfer target (20.5-ft) under external, internal, and control focus conditions. For the trained target, the FF group demonstrated superior accuracy, consistency, and reduced bias with an external focus, whereas the LF group showed no significant differences across focus conditions. Crucially, in the transfer test, the FF group maintained superior consistency with an external focus but exhibited significantly worse accuracy and bias compared to an internal focus. These findings support an effect-based account, suggesting that external focus benefits depend on established action-effect contingencies. Furthermore, the dissociation between consistency and accuracy during transfer suggests that while an external focus can prime a motor pattern (consistency), its ability to parameterize the action (accuracy) is constrained by the specific sensory information integrated during learning. We conclude by exploring the theoretical and practical ramifications of applying an effect-based framework to understanding the principles that govern an optimal focus of attention.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54536,"journal":{"name":"Psychology of Sport and Exercise","volume":"84 ","pages":"Article 103087"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146168585","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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