Applying ACT to Support Confidence and Performance

Watson, Dean R and Donachie, Tracy C (2026) Applying ACT to Support Confidence and Performance. In: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Sport and Performance: From Theory to Practice. Routledge, London, UK. ISBN 9781032848372 (In Press)

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Abstract

This chapter draws on our applied experiences of using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in sport, analysing how ACT can help athletes with confidence and how it can improve performance. In the first part of the chapter, we provide an overview of our experiences in using ACT with athletes. We then review the research supporting the use of ACT for athlete confidence and performance enhancement. We then present a case study example of of the practical application of ACT with a female youth gymnast who has returned to her sport following a long-term injury and was experiencing cognitive and behavioural challenges. The growing body of evidence suggests ACT can help athletes with these types of challenges. The chapter summarises this evidence and provides guidance for implementing ACT intervention in sport psychology practice.

Item Type:	Book Section
Keywords:	Sport Psychology, Applied Sport Science, Exercise Psychology, Sports Psychology, Coaching Theory, Psychological Science, Behavioral Sciences, Sport and Exercise Science, Sports and Leisure, Sports Coaching,
Divisions:	Sciences > Psychology
Depositing User:	James Bisset
Date Deposited:	22 May 2026 14:10
Last Modified:	22 May 2026 14:10
URI:	https://ulaw.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/69

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