NEGATIVE MENTAL STATES OF ATHLETES AND METHODS OF THEIR DIAGNOSTICATION IN THE PRE-START PERIOD

Abstract

This scientific publication provides information on the characteristics and classification of athletes' mental states during the pre-competition period in events of various organizational levels. Based on an analysis of scientific and methodological literature, the authors identified effective methods for diagnosing athletes' mental states, taking into account their informativeness and practical application in competitive environments. The research logic is based on an analysis of modern scientific and methodological literature in sports psychology, which allowed the authors to determine criteria for systematizing negative mental states that affect athletes' competitive performance. In the first stage, the authors defined the concepts of "sports psychodiagnostics," "mental state," and "psychoregulation." Specifically, sports psychodiagnostics is defined as a science that studies the psychological characteristics of athletes, evaluates their mental state, and assesses their readiness for competitions. Mental state is interpreted as the current activity of the psyche, influenced by both external circumstances and individual personality traits. Psychoregulation refers to influencing an athlete's psyche to optimize their condition, either through self-regulation or with the help of coaches (mentors) and specialists, when available (heteroregulation).The publication highlights the most common negative mental states frequently encountered in athletes, particularly schoolchildren and cadet-aged athletes, before competitive activities. These include anxiety, fear, monotony, frustration, stress, excessive confidence, and more. In the second stage of the study, the authors identified valid methods for diagnosing mental states. Simple yet effective diagnostic tests that can be used immediately before competitions are described, including dynamometry, measurement of controlled muscle effort, and the assessment of short time intervals. These methods are characterized by ease of use, speed of obtaining results, and practicality in stadium or gym conditions. The article also provides recommendations for coaches to help them effectively assess and adjust athletes' mental states.