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Abstract
Mental toughness (MT) is defined as a set of attributes that allow an individual to persevere through difficult circumstances that ultimately can lead to successful outcomes. It is also a critical component of maximizing the performance of an athlete. These attributes assist with and promote a state of mind that enhances performance. A negative state of mind can work against an athlete and inhibit performance. Mental toughness consists of six elements: strength, flexibility, resiliency, sportsmanship, responsiveness and ethics. Goal setting, self-talk and visual imagery are also factors that play a role in MT. Mental toughness minimizes the mental inhibition one can develop subconsciously. Multiple studies have examined whether MT can be developed or whether it is something that is already present in the individual through genetics. There are arguments to support both sides of this debate. This article describes skills that make a person more mentally tough, as well as strategies to improve MT.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Tori Quinn
Tori Quinn is a recent graduate from the Master's in Sports Administration program at Canisius College in Buffalo, NY.
Lauren Cavanaugh
Lauren Cavanaugh ([email protected]) is an assistant professor in the Department of Kinesiology at Canisius College in Buffalo, NY.