Psychosocial antecedents of sport injury, prevention, and intervention: An overview of theoretical approaches and empirical findings

Abstract

It is accepted that risk factors such a type of sport, equipment, and individual physical and psychological characteristics interact in the genesis of sport‐related injuries. The presented review provides an overview of theoretical approaches and empirical findings with regard to the psychosocial antecedents of sport injuries. It also provides an overview of intervention studies that have taken place within the last 15 years. During this period, different models for detecting injury outcome have been developed. It appears that psychosocial variables such as high competitive anxiety, low or high emotional state, high levels of life changes, low coping resources, and low levels of social support are directly or indirectly related to injury outcome. Moreover, empirical prevention studies demonstrate positive results in terms of a reduction in the number of injuries and, in most cases, improvements in mood and reduced stress levels. Many important research variables need further recognition for the advancement of the field. The review offers a selection of future research variables linked to theory and design as well as measurement and analysis. Moreover, implications for practice are also given.