Attentional Focus and Control Parameter

Abstract

In two separate experiments, this study examined changes in motor pattern and performance accuracy when low-level throwers focused on internal variables, external variables, and/or velocity of throw. In Experiment 1 the task goal was to improve the throwing pattern. In Experiment 2 the task goal was to throw as accurately as possible at a target. The results of Experiment 1 indicated that increasing velocity was most effective for changing the throwing pattern, with external focus more effective than internal focus. The results of Experiment 2 indicated that external focus was the most accurate condition and increasing velocity was most effective for changing the throwing pattern.

Key words:

• constrained action hypothesis
• pattern change
• constraints
• dynamic systems

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Dan Southard

Please address correspondence concerning this article to Dan Southard, Department of Kinesiology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas 76129.