Sports Psychology in Brazil: Evolution, Professional Performance, and Consequences Perceived in Athletes

A Quantitative/Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

Sport Psychology is an interdisciplinary field that encompasses the application of psychological principles to the sporting context, with the aim of improving athletic performance, well-being, and the personal development of athletes. In Brazil, the training and work of sports psychologists has been consolidated over the last few decades, in line with the growth and professionalization of sport in the country. The aim of this study was to investigate the trajectory of academic training, the main areas of activity, and the challenges faced by sports psychologists in Brazil. To this end, 230 participants were recruited, including physical education professionals and psychologists who specialize in sports psychology and work in the field. A semi-structured interview and a structured questionnaire were used as instruments, and the analysis used descriptive statistics for the quantitative data and content analysis by coding for the qualitative data. The survey revealed that although the academic training of Sport Psychology professionals in Brazil is robust, with many professionals holding postgraduate degrees, there are still significant challenges in valuing and integrating the profession in an interdisciplinary way. The perception of moderate or low appreciation by many of these professionals indicates an area that needs attention and improvement, highlighting challenges, especially in terms of funding and resources. It can be concluded that, despite this being a field of activity undergoing increasing development and recognition of its importance, according to professionals working in the sector, there is still a long way to go to achieve ideal conditions.