2026/27 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

SPSC1230 Introduction to Sport and Exercise Psychology

10 Credits Class Size: 100

Module manager: TBC
Email:

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2026/27

Pre-requisite qualifications

A basic understanding of quantitative and qualitative approaches is expected on starting this module. Prior attainment of a GCSE/BTEC or higher in PE, sports science, biology, sociology, geography, psychology or a close equivalent is expected.

Module replaces

BMSC1218T

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module introduces concepts in sport and exercise focussing on the social psychology of group performance, such as cohesion and leadership. Key concepts such as self-esteem, athletic identity, and self-efficacy, significantly affect engagement and performance with respect to sport and exercise. The social environment—feedback from coaches, comparison to peers, and cultural expectations—shapes these perceptions, influencing confidence and persistence. This module will explore the key concepts and theories surrounding group dynamics, attitudes and behaviours in relation to sports and exercise.

Objectives

This module will develop your understanding of key issues relating to sports participation, team dynamics, engagement and performance in team sports. Aspects such as leadership and coaching as well as the influence of stereotypes, social identities and external and internal pressures on sport performance will be covered. On completion you will understand the key theories and some practical applications as they relate to social psychology and their influence on sport participation and performance.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1: Evaluate and discuss key concepts and theories in group dynamics and their effects on interpersonal processes and group behaviour in sport.
2: Identify and describe key concepts to improving team dynamics within a sports Team.

Skills outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1: Communicate their ideas accurately and effectively, with individuals/and in groups

Syllabus

Content:
Group development and composition
Cohesion
Collective efficacy
Leadership
Coach-athlete relationships
Social hierarchies
Audience effects

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Lecture 11 1 11
Seminar 2 2 4
Independent online learning hours 3
Private study hours 82
Total Contact hours 15
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 100

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Presentation Group presentation with individual questions (50% group, 50% individual) 100
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100

Resit will be an individual case-study for 100% of the mark.

Reading List

Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list

Last updated: 30/04/2026

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