Psychophysiological components of stress resistance of qualified athletes (academic rowing)

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the state of psychophysiological functions of skilled athletes specializing in academic rowing, in relation to the level of existing stress, emotional stability and the effectiveness of mental self-regulation and adaptability. To determine the state of psychophysiological functions, the maximum rate of movement of the hand (according to the method of tapping test) used diagnostic complex "Diagnostics-1" (MV Makarenko, VS Lyzogub). To study the strategies of coping with stress (coping strategies) and to determine the priority style of coping with stressful situations in athletes, the questionnaire "Identification of individual coping strategies" by E. Heim was used. To assess the current mental state of athletes (namely – the level of existing stress), emotional stability and effectiveness of mental self-regulation and adaptability, the test of color choice M. Luscher was used. In the studied group of athletes revealed the prevalence of respondents with a high level of stress resistance, high and medium level of emotional stability, average efficiency of mental self-regulation and adaptability. The most common coping strategies among the surveyed athletes were: in the cognitive sphere – "preservation of self-control", in the emotional – "optimism", in the behavioral – "distraction". In general, the use of adaptive stress management strategies outnumbered non-adaptive and relatively adaptive strategies among athletes. Specific psychophysiological markers of stress resistance, efficiency of mental self-regulation and adaptability of the examined athletes were indicators of strength and efficiency of sensorimotor activity. Emotional stability of the surveyed athletes was associated with the strength and functional mobility of nervous processes. The identified relationships between indicators of psychophysiological functions and psychological characteristics of athletes can have prognostic value and be used to optimize sports improvement in this sport.