(Re)conceptualising competition stress in sport performers

Abstract

This paper reflects upon important conceptual issues in the area of competition stress. Specifically, the different perspectives of stress are acknowledged, culminating with support for the adoption of a transactional approach, where stress is conceived as a process underpinned by relational meaning. In addition, the importance of an individual’s emotional orientation in performance contexts is discussed together with its role in the stress process. The paper draws to a close with definitions of competition stress-related terms and the implications of the discussion for future research.