Effects of tailored interventions for anxiety management in choking-susceptible performing artists: a mixed-methods collective case study

Frontiers in Psychology

Psychology

Veronika J. Lubert¹  Sanna M. Nordin-Bates²  Peter Gröpel³ 

[1] Department of Occupational, Economic, and Social Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria;Department of Physical Activity and Health, Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, Stockholm, Sweden;Department of Sport Science, Center for Sport Science and University Sports, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria;

关键词: performance anxiety;    performing arts;    performance under pressure;    psychological interventions;    tailored interventions;    choking;    mixed-methods;   

DOI  :  10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1164273

 received in 2023-02-12, accepted in 2023-04-18,  发布年份 2023

来源: Frontiers

【 摘 要 】

IntroductionNot being able to manage performance anxiety and subsequently experiencing a decline in performance have been called “choking under pressure”. High trait anxiety and fear of negative evaluation, as well as low self-efficacy or self-confidence, can put performers especially at risk of experiencing choking. This study, therefore, examined the effects of psychological choking interventions tailored to “choking-susceptible” performing artists individually in a coaching setting.MethodsWe conducted a mixed-methods (QUANT + QUAL) collective case study with nine performing artists, who each received five individual coaching sessions. The tailored choking interventions comprised acclimatization training, goal setting, and pre-performance routines, including elements such as imagery, self-talk, and relaxation techniques. Before and after the 10-week intervention phase, they filled in questionnaires on trait performance anxiety, fear of negative evaluation, and self-efficacy, performed in front of a jury, and were interviewed about their experiences. Transcripts of interviews and coaching sessions were analyzed using thematic analysis. Heart rate measurements, weekly performance videos, and expert evaluations were also part of our comprehensive data.ResultsQuantitative data showed reductions in performance anxiety and fear of negative evaluation, and increases in self-efficacy and performance quality, from before to after the intervention phase. Most participants also had a lower heart rate when performing for the jury. Themes from qualitative analysis comprised managing nervousness and feeling more relaxed, becoming more self-confident, satisfaction with artistic and mental performance, feeling good and enjoying performing, and general positive effects.ConclusionTailoring psychological interventions may provide several benefits for choking-susceptible performing artists.

【 授权许可】

Unknown   
Copyright © 2023 Lubert, Nordin-Bates and Gröpel.