Identify and address performance anxiety

Body image

Though concerns relating to body image exist for all genders in sport, they can be particularly pronounced for female athletes.

In certain cases, female players may have concerns about fitting in with the traditional image of femininity, potentially contributing to on-pitch anxiety as they partake in a physical, and therefore stereotypically masculine, sport.

Recent research suggests that soccer players who are more dissatisfied with their body image can also display higher levels of anxiety, on and off the pitch.

This can negatively impact not only performance, but an individual’s overall wellbeing. This is because body image concerns about increased muscularity and body size may come into play, despite athletes typically being in peak physical condition to perform at the top level.

 

Gender bias

With there being generally less investment in the women’s game than the men’s, environmental pressures may differ between genders.

For instance, reduced financial stability can increase both general and performance anxiety, as players feel greater pressure to play well to retain their place in the starting line-up and, ultimately, their financial income. 

This pressure is, of course, also present in the men’s game. However, the fewer opportunities for full-time contracts in the women’s game, plus lower pay, ultimately means less financial security for female players in general. This may be a source of increased concern and anxiety when playing the game that used to be ‘just for fun’.

It is important to remember that the above are generalized considerations. 

Not all players will experience performance anxiety, and, of those who do, it could be for many other reasons. Influences such as individual experiences, personality, role in the team and support system, among many others, also hold significance.

 

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SO, HOW CAN YOU BEST SUPPORT YOUR ATHLETES?

How to spot the signs

Changes in performance/technique

Monitor any changes in how they perform from their typical baseline, such as hesitation in decision-making or uncharacteristic errors.

 

Observation

Keep a keen eye on changes in body language before, during and after matches and practice.

 

Communication

Ensure you have open avenues of communication with players, allowing them to express self-doubt when they experience it.

 

How to address performance anxiety

Typically, this involves a combination of approaches, depending on the individual in question and what is likely to work best for them. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, with performance anxiety something to be managed, not solved.

Check-in regularly with your players

This keeps that line of communication open and lets them know you are always there to listen. It can also contribute to building a culture where your athletes feel comfortable expressing when they are struggling.

 

Goal-setting and positive reinforcement

These two tools go hand-in-hand. Helping your players to make clear, short-term goals can provide quick wins that will contribute to both their immediate confidence and overall development. By providing ample positive feedback, this can improve self-esteem, which has been linked with performance anxiety.

 

Recognize your limits

If a player’s performance anxiety develops beyond the scope of your support, then a referral to a sport psychologist or mental-health professional may be the most appropriate course of action. These experts can provide specialized interventions to address the psychological aspects of performance anxiety.