In this section we will explore Robert Nideffer’s theory of focus styles and explore the different styles of focus and identify the most appropriate focus style for a variety of situations. You will be invited to analyse scenarios and review helpful focus styles through case examples and then relate them to your own performance. Using the different focus styles you can better manage distractions during training or performance.
Focus and attentional control is a complex area but very important when planning for long term sustained performance. It can be used in combination with other aspects of performance psychology, like imagery for example. By completing and practising this section you will likely be able to:
Robert Nideffer’s (1976) Theory of Attentional and Interpersonal Style can be a complex theory to learn and best done in a visual and dynamic fashion, drawing on your experiences. This means that you will need to practise and try to activate the different focus styles over a period of time. Watch this video several times to help you along the way.