SPMT 304 – Sport Psychology | Exam 1 Q&A (50+ Questions) – Motivation, Mental Imagery, Goal Setting, Performance Routines

This document features over 50 high-quality and already-graded A+ questions and answers from Exam 1 of the SPMT 304 2025/2026 course in Sport Psychology. It explores the mindset and mental strategies used by elite athletes, students, and high achievers, making it highly relevant for students of kinesiology, sport management, psychology, physical education, and coaching sciences. Topics covered include intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation, grit, goal setting (short- and long-term), and healthy vs. unhealthy commitment. Students will gain insight into psychological tools such as mental imagery, pre-performance routines, focus/concentration techniques, and emotional control strategies. The document also discusses common performance obstacles like fear of success, justification through “being realistic,” and average-based thinking. Real-life examples from athletics, medicine, and entertainment are integrated throughout, featuring individuals like Vaughn Walwyn, Steve Prefontaine, Gene Kranz, and Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale. These stories reinforce key themes such as passion, perseverance, visualization, and maximizing one’s unique potential. This guide is perfect for students preparing for sport psychology exams or anyone interested in performance optimization, goal achievement, or the mental dynamics of high-level competition. Keywords: spmt 304, sport psychology, mental imagery, goal setting, focus, motivation, grit, performance routine, intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, fear of success, psychological training, commitment, peak performance, athlete mindset, visualization, emotional control, performance mindset