Performance Psychology

This course focuses on the application of a systematic approach for performance-based techniques as it pertains to the assessment, intervention, and consultation of individual athletes, teams, coaches, administrators, and sport organizations. Particular attention is given to the development of a professional practice in sport psychology. 

The purpose of the course is to educate practitioners on the multifaceted aspects of sports psychology, especially as it pertains to the conceptual and theoretical developments, current status of empirical research, and principles and procedures of professional practice. As a result of this course, students will have the opportunity to become knowledgeable about sport psychology and its role in the practice of professional psychology. The course covers underlying theory in the practice of sports psychology, the research methods used to enhance the science, and clinical applications as it applies to clinical interventions working with athletes, as well as other high performers including people in the performing arts, executives, and law enforcement. 

Civic and global citizenship, social justice, and cultural diversity: This course consists of graduate level material to prepare students to address issues related to multiculturalism and various issues of diversity. As the material within the topics of civic and global citizenship, social justice, and cultural diversity are constantly changing, the course material is variable depending on the political climate, the instructor, and other social justice issues within the American and global cultures. Research related to microagressions, racism, prejudice, social justice, and issues of diversity will form the framework of the course. 

This course is designed to introduce students to the diagnosis, causal factors, and treatments of the major psychological disorders in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Historical and contemporary conceptions of abnormal behavior will be explored as well as controversies within the field regarding the classification, assessment, and treatment of psychological disorders. Behavioral, cognitive, interpersonal, sociocultural, genetic, and biological/neuroscience aspects of psychopathology will be covered as appropriate. The course will emphasize descriptive psychopathology (e.g., phenomenology, epidemiology, natural course of disorder). Issues of etiology, treatment, access to mental health services, and cultural issues to be considered will also be covered. 

Organizational Interventions at the Individual Level: Introduction to a disciplined, theory-based approach to executive coaching emphasizing multilevel forces impacting individual behavior. Student will apply theory and methods learned through readings, class discussion and case study analysis to a supervised Executive Coaching project. 

Reviews basic research and theory concerning work and careers; examines various strategies for improving the quality of life at work and promoting optimal career development. 

The undergraduate course in Exercise Psychology is designed to cover (a) psychological and neurobiological responses to exercise that help to advance our understanding of the effects of exercise on mental health and well-being; (b) psychological theories for understanding and predicting health-oriented exercise and physical activity behavior; and (c) interventions and strategies that have shown promise for increasing physical activity participation and behavioral adherence. 

Practica are defined as field practice (either through internal practica housed at GSAPP or external practica at other sites) pursued under the intensive on-site supervision of practitioner supervisors. The practicum experience will vary according to the student's training level, the course work taken, and the experiences available at the particular site. Practica are designed to provide you with the opportunity to practice what has been and is being learned through course work, as well as an opportunity to learn directly from experienced field supervisors. Students can learn about possible clinical practica through the annual Practicum Fair. Clinical and School students are approved for these positions by the GSAPP Coordinator of Practicum Placements.  

*Completion of the performance psychology certificate can be satisfied by other electives as approved by program director.