The Interplay of Sport Science and Sport Psychology

The institutionalization of Sport Science and Sport Psychology is closely linked and the ongoing process of the disciplinary developments is very dynamic and influencing each other in various respects. Whereas in German language we often speak about the ‘mother-discipline’, namely psychology, of sport psychology, in this contribution I would like to pick up the English word of ‘parent discipline’ of sport psychology, that is psychology and sport science, and focus on the interplay of Sport Science and Sport Psychology. This interplay is discussed in regard to (1) an appropriate theoretical framework enabling interdisciplinary communication and conjunction of concepts, (2) appropriate methodological approaches for the acquisition and coordination of information, and (3) appropriate strategies for cooperation in the application of knowledge and technologies.

By the example of fitness, the conceptualization, operationalization, and strategies for the enhancement of mental fitness is demonstrated. Initially, dimensions and factors as they are emphasized from various sport-science perspectives are identified and located in a theoretical context. In terms of mental fitness different facets are characterized and a multi-method approach for the operationalization is explained. To complete this part interventional strategies for the enhancement of mental fitness and general fitness will be discussed.

In conclusion it is argued that interdisciplinary communication, coordination, and cooperation is essential for progress of insights in sport science as well as in sport psychology and its transfer into practice. Potential complementarity of different disciplines or disciplinary perspectives and the necessity of a subordinated framework for the integration is highlighted and the concept of ‘dosed complementary interdisciplinarity’ is introduced.