Psychological predictors of injury in elite athletes

Abstract

The nature of injuries within sport and the psychological factors impacting upon injury rehabilitation are well documented (Brewer, 2003; Johnson, 1997; Van Mechelen, Hlobil, & Kemper, 1992; Weiss, 2003), however existing scientific knowledge that addresses the psychological predictors of injury in elite sport is somewhat contradictory and less comprehensive. Given the cost of injuries, both in terms of time out of sport, the expense of rehabilitation, and adverse social and economic effects (Van Mechelen et al., 1992), further examination of the psychological predictors of injury in elite athletes may prove beneficial for the sports medicine community. In light of this, the purpose of the present study was to examine the relationship between injuries, specific medical factors (e.g., asthma, back pain) and psychological risk factors including life stress, mood, previous psychological diagnoses and disordered eating behaviour in an elite athlete population - scholarship athletes at the Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS). This investigation was undertaken with a primary focus upon applied research that addresses 'real life' challenges facing athletes and sports medicine staff, versus examination of theoretical issues within the area of psychological risk factors and sports injuries. Research was conducted via examination of data obtained through processes and measures already established by the QAS as part of their medical screening policy. Based upon the results of this investigation, recommendations can be made with regards to implications for practical application within specific elite sporting environments (e.g., QAS), in addition to the sports medicine community at large. Furthermore, through the summary of injury characteristics and the development of population-specific tables of normative data for the mood and life stress measurement scales, an applied contribution to the existing body of knowledge can be made that provides a baseline for future research into screening protocols and interventions aimed at reducing the risk of injury in sport.