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The American Journal of Sports Medicine 28:S (2000)
© 2000 American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine

The Influence of Psychological Factors on Sports Injuries

Review of the Literature

Astrid Junge, PhD*

Schulthess Clinic, Zurich, Switzerland

* Address correspondence and reprint requests to Astrid Junge, PhD, Spine Unit, Schulthess Clinic, Lengghalde 2, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland

The influence of psychological factors on sports injuries has been demonstrated in numerous empirical studies. Almost all investigations have been based on stress theory or a personality-profile approach. Although the majority of studies have employed different methods, the results are in general agreement that "life events" can influence the risk of injury in athletes. In this context, social support appears to have a buffering effect. According to existing results, the influence of stress-coping strategies is somewhat questionable. From the numerous psychological attributes that have been investigated in relation to sports injuries, only competitive anxiety has been shown to be associated with injury occurrence. A personality profile typical of the "injury-prone" athlete does not exist. However, several studies have shown a certain readiness to take risks (lack of caution, adventurous spirit) on the part of injured athletes. In this review, the current knowledge regarding the relationship between psychological factors and sports injuries is presented and a stress theory model is developed.






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Copyright © 2000 by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine.