Perceived Control and Hedonic Tone Dynamics During Performance in Elite Shooters

Area of Science:

• Sports Psychology
• Performance Science
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Understanding athlete performance dynamics is crucial for skill development.
• The Multiaction Plan (MAP) model provides a framework for analyzing performance states.
• Individual differences in perceived control and hedonic tone influence performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the temporal dynamics of perceived control and hedonic tone in athletes.
• To examine these dynamics in relation to four performance states defined by the MAP model.
• To identify idiosyncratic trends in perceived control and hedonic tone during performance.

Main Methods:

• Ten elite shooters performed 120 shots, identifying a core action component.
• Subjective assessments of perceived control and hedonic tone were recorded pre- and post-shot.
• A probabilistic approach analyzed 2x2 interactions of control, tone, and performance.

Main Results:

• Four distinct, idiosyncratic performance types were identified for each athlete.
• Significant within- and between-individual differences in intensity and probability were observed.
• Dynamic shifts in processing types occurred during performance.

Conclusions:

• Findings support the MAP model's conceptualization of performance states.
• Athlete performance is characterized by unique patterns of perceived control and hedonic tone.
• Action- and emotion-centered strategies can enhance and sustain optimal athletic performance.