Performing to a world class standard under pressure—Can we learn lessons from the Olympians?

Abstract With the 2012 Olympics being held in London, we explored pre-requisites for success in sport, and the comparative efficacy of employing these when performing under intense pressure in the clinical setting. We asked members of the Great Britain Olympic rowing team and OMFS surgeons to comple...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:British journal of oral & maxillofacial surgery 2012-06, Vol.50 (4), p.291-297
Main Authors: Colbert, Serryth D, Scott, James, Dale, Trevor, Brennan, Peter A
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Achievement
Adaptation, Psychological
Adult
Aged
Athletes - psychology
Clinical Competence
Competitive Behavior
Dentistry
Female
Humans
London
Male
Middle Aged
Motivation
Olympic athletes
Oral Surgical Procedures - psychology
Pressure
Self Efficacy
Sports - psychology
Stress, Psychological
Surgery
Surveys and Questionnaires
Young Adult
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Summary:Abstract With the 2012 Olympics being held in London, we explored pre-requisites for success in sport, and the comparative efficacy of employing these when performing under intense pressure in the clinical setting. We asked members of the Great Britain Olympic rowing team and OMFS surgeons to complete a validated questionnaire on how they performed under pressure. 89 questionnaires were completed by 43 surgeons and 46 rowers (81% response). We compared the results in terms of mental toughness and technical skill. The importance of training to be a winner was evident in athletes. While emphasising the multidimensional nature of talent, we recognise the essential role of psychology in the ability of individuals to fulfil their sporting potential. We discuss the possible implications for surgeons.
ISSN:0266-4356
1532-1940
DOI:10.1016/j.bjoms.2012.04.263