Dynamics of pre-competitive mental status of athletes (on the example of female volleyball team)

Abstract

This publication addresses the problem of psychological health in sports, in general, and in volleyball in particular, since volleyball is a highly emotional sport. It is necessary to ensure control of psychological stability of athletes to provide achievement of the expected outcomes. We studied psychological characteristics of volleyball and determined the studied psychological status of female athletes. The purpose of the study was to analyze the dynamics of pre-competitive mental status of female volleyball players before playing with teams occupying various levels in the tournament list. Research methods and organization. The study included the following methods: analysis of scientific and methodological literature, pedagogical observation, psychological testing, and methods of mathematical statistics. Research results and discussion. The research focused on assessment of the following indicators before three games (with teams of different levels): pre-start status (by physical, emotional and cognitive components), attitude of an athlete to the upcoming competition, situational anxiety. Results. The outcomes revealed the dynamics and tendencies of the precompetitive status of the volleyball players.