This article reviews explanations offered by psychologists as to why athletes risk injury and even death in pursuit of sports such as sky diving or mountain climbing. (MT)

Athletes, including recreational athletes, must cope with stress, both from within and from others. The causes of stress, identifying the distressed athlete, and coping with stress are dealt with. (MT)

Sport psychology is becoming a bona fide field of study, although specialists have yet to come to terms with their own definitions. While practitioners stick mostly to performance enhancement and emotional control, researchers range the field. Eventually research is expected to yield information that will help physicians get their patients…

A sports event with a large crowd in attendance contains the dynamics to turn from a wholesome event to a mob scene. Fan violence has escalated in recent years and is most likely to occur in segments of the population that feel disenfranchised. Theories of what causes crowd violence and ways to avoid it are discussed. (JL)

A mental skills program is presented that emphasizes the importance of providing coaches and athletes with a common behavioral definition of concentration. The role of the sport psychologist in training and competition and the need for working with and through the coach are illustrated in two case reports. (Author/MT)

An athlete's emotional response to injury is as important as the injury. Techniques used by physicians and sport psychologists to help athletes overcome emotional distress and play again are discussed. (Author/MT)

For many children, sports participation develops skills and provides a fun activity. For others, however, it may have negative effects, including loss of self-esteem, depression and agressive behavior. Major psychological issues associated with youth sports are discussed and suggestions on how to encourage a child's participation are offered. (JL)

Presents a case report of a 15-year-old boy with severe hemophilia who played soccer 1 school year but was denied continued participation following another screening examination. Before deciding about participation, physicians must assess the type and severity of hemophilia and risk factors for injury. Appropriate sports for hemophiliacs are…

International Society of Sport Psychology clarifies the psychological benefits of physical activity, noting the positive relationship between physical activity level and mental health. Exercise can reduce anxiety, decrease depression levels, reduce neuroticism and anxiety, reduce stress, and have beneficial emotional effects for both sexes across…

Discusses four chronic diseases (cystic fibrosis, congenital heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and asthma) that affect American children. Many have their physical activities unnecessarily restricted, though sports and exercise can actually alleviate symptoms and improve their psychosocial development. Physicians are encouraged to prescribe…