Collecting data for mental factors

Mental factor methods include questionnaires or personal reflection diaries and are specific to each individual. These tests can be carried out regularly to compare and check for improvements.

Questionnaire

Questionnaires can be used to find out about a variety of mental factors that impact on performance. The result is written down and the findings produced can be a combination of qualitative and quantitative information.

There are a wide range of questionnaires that can be used for mental factors, for example:

"Questionnaire - Question, I concentrate before I perform, I concentrate as I perform, I carry out my duties during the match, I mark my opponent during the match, Always, Sometimes, Never "

Personal reflection diaries

Reflection diaries are a record of an individual’s feelings, thoughts and opinions on how they are performing. Although this information is mostly qualitative (subjective) it can give clear indications about a performer’s strengths and areas for development. A performer may also note how they are feeling mentally.

Computer showing a personal reflection diary. Thought bubble showing a hockey player during performance.

Question

How do mental factor methods ensure accuracy and reliable results?

By recording the performance and then completing the observation schedule or personal reflection diary the results are likely to be more accurate as plenty of time is taken to record and check what is being observed. This means the footage can be used to:

  • back up judgements made in the diary
  • highlight areas of improvement that may otherwise be missed
  • show the impact on performance more clearly