Evolution of the concept of «mental strength» in foreign sport psychology

Abstract

This article discusses the stages of development of the concept of mental strength in foreign literature. It traces the evolution of approaches to understanding and study of this phenomenon from reliance on the experience of consultations and observations to development of a full qualitative and quantitative research. The article discusses the importance of this notion of positive psychology for modern sport psychology, as well as the problems associated with the lack of a generally accepted definition, valid and reliable research tools and a lack of longitudinal studies.

Keywords

• mental strength
• coping
• psychological readiness
• self-efficacy
• sport.