Mental Toughness Mental toughness is one of the most common terms used in sport – by athletes, coaches, spectators and the media. However, it is also one of the least understood terms. This book examines the characteristics and development of mentally tough sport performers, and presents the cutting-edge research in this area. In these chapters, the author proposes that mental toughness is a personality style and mindset, and presents a compelling case for its inclusion within the positive psychological paradigm. This second edition has been updated to include new material on the characterisation, conceptualisation, measurement, and development of mental toughness. As in the first edition, the book includes a historical overview of empirical research, and also describes the conceptual arguments behind this research. Now packed with even more rigorous scientific evidence and bang up-todate anecdotes from the world of sport, the book presents a fascinating explanation of why some athletes are successful, and how and why they stay on top. Mental Toughness: The Mindset Behind Sporting Achievement will be essential reading for all sport psychology, sport science, sport studies, and coaching students. Michael Sheard has enjoyed a distinguished teaching, research and consultancy career. Specialising in teaching Research Methods, and Sport and Exercise Psychology, Michael has presented his investigative work at conferences worldwide. He is currently working on his first novel. Michael lives in the northeast of England, and can be contacted on
[email protected] hotmail.com. “This book authoritatively updates what was already an excellent and highly readable exposition on mental toughness in sports. All major theoretical and research bases are touched and supported with up-to-date citations. Additionally, scientific concepts are fleshed out with vivid anecdotal citations that make the book come alive. Michael Sheard has established himself as a leading authority on mental toughness.” – Arnold LeUnes, Professor of Psychology, Texas A and M University, USA “Michael Sheard has managed to successfully draw together a wide range of academic and applied material to dissect the phenomenon of mental toughness. The underlying academic credentials are extremely sound and are coupled with an engaging presentation style which I find very appealing. The book updates the previous edition very well, and the new material is excellent.” – John Kremer, Honorary Research Fellow, Queen’s University, Belfast, UK