The impact of emotions on actual sporting performance

Abstract

The aim of the study was to explore the affects of emotions with a particular focus on anger, anxiety, dejection, excitement and happiness on actual performance in ladies hockey. From the progression of anxiety and performance research, the study was mainly designed to expand the literature in the area of emotions and performance. Thirteen female hockey players (Mean age = 20) participated in this study completing a questionnaire package over five games consisting of both quantitative and qualitative designs (Sport Emotion Questionnaire, Post game performance questionnaire and a qualitative self-reported questionnaire). The results showed significant findings for the impact of two of the emotions investigated on performance. Anxiety (p < .01) and excitement (p < .001) scores reflect actual performance providing empirical findings for the emotion literature. The study also revealed that high positively toned and high negatively toned emotions can positively affect performance. In conclusion, findings add support to the contention that emotions can affect actual performance.