Understanding the yips in golf : thoughts, feelings, and focus of attention in yips-affected golfers

Philipp Bennet Philippen, Babett H. Lobinger

Publication: Contribution to journalJournal articlesResearch

Abstract

The yips in golf is the interruption of a smooth putting movement by an involuntary jerk or freezing of the arm. Psychological factors seem to worsen the phenomenon. However, published data on how the yips in golf is cognitively and emotionally experienced are very limited. Moreover, the focus of attention in yips-affected golfers has not been investigated. Thus, the authors interviewed 17 yips-affected golfers to record the thoughts and feelings that are experienced in a situation in which the yips occurs. In addition, the authors asked them about their focus of attention right before putting. Content analysis revealed a negative cognitive and emotional pattern for all golfers. Furthermore, 11 participants reported focusing either internally or on possible mistakes. The results contribute to an understanding of the yips in golf and provide a starting point for further investigations into possible interventions for the yips. Verf.-Referat
Translated title of the contributionZum Verständnis der Yips im Golf : Gedanken, Gefühle und Aufmerksamkeitsfokus bei von Yips betroffenen Golfspielern
Original languageEnglish
JournalThe sport psychologist : the official journal of the International Society of Sport Psychology
Volume26
Issue numberChampaign
Pages (from-to)325-340
Number of pages16
ISSN0888-4781
Publication statusPublished - 2012

Citation