Walid Briki *, Ruud J. R. Den Hartigh */**, Denis Hauw */*** and Christophe Gernigon *
(*) Southern France Montpellier University, France
(**) University of Groningen, The Netherlands
(***) University of Lausanne, Department of Social and Political Sciences, Institute of Sport Sciences, Lausanne, Switzerland
Citation
Briki, W., J. R. Den Hartigh, R., Hauw, D., Gernigon, C. (2012). A qualitative exploration of the psychological contents and dynamics of momentum in sport. International Journal of Sport Psychology, 43(5), 365-384. doi:10.7352/IJSP.2012.43.365
Abstract
While studies on triggers and outcomes of Psychological Momentum (PM) exist, little is known about the dynamics by which PM emerges and develops over time. Based on video-assisted recalls of PM experiences in table tennis and swimming competitions, this study qualitatively explored the triggering processes, contents, and the development of PM over time. PM was found to be triggered by mechanisms of dissonance, consonance, or fear of not winning. During the PM experience, participants reported a variety of perceptions, affects and emotions, cognitions, and behaviors. PM was found to develop through processes of amplification that sometimes ended with a reduction of efforts when the victory or defeat was perceived as being inevitable. These findings are discussed in light of theories on self-regulation and reactance-helplessness. From a practical standpoint, achievement goal-based strategies are suggested, since mastery-approach goals were found to be endorsed to maintain positive PM and overcome negative PM.
Keywords: Coasting, Dissonance, Helplessness, Performance, Qualitative method, Reactance