The iceberg has melted: theoretical, measurement and applied developments in the area of mood and physical activity

The iceberg has melted: theoretical, measurement and applied developments in the area of mood and physical activity

Investigations of relationships between mood and physical activity have provided a focus for researchers for decades; led by William P. Morgan's pioneering research efforts since the 1960s. Generally, the central tenets of Morgan's (1985) mental health model, which proposed an inverse relationship between psychopathology and sport performance, have stood the test of time (see Raglin, 2001). However, one proposal associated with Morgan, immortalised in a 1980 article Test of Champions: The Iceberg Profile, in which he espoused the importance of a mood profile characterised by low anger, confusion, depression, fatigue and tension, and high vigour, has been the subject of much critical debate in the sport psychology literature (e.g., Renger, 1993; Rowley, Landers, Kyllo, & Etnier, 1995; Terry, 1995, Beedie, Terry, & Lane, 2000), which continues to the present time.

The presentations in this symposium will address a wide range of theoretical, measurement and applied issues concerned with the inter-relationships between mood and physical activity, both in the sport and exercise domains. First, Dr. Chris Beedie will address definitional issues and their impact on measurement. In particular, he will discuss how the origins of the POMS influence contemporary uses of the measure, highlight the limitations of single adjective items, and reflect on how distinctions between moods and emotions have significant implications for researchers and practitioners. Next, Prof. Andy Lane will address the theoretical basis for research into mood and performance and assess how this influences the measurement of mood. In doing so, he will review the way in which theoretical developments have guided measurement and will propose future challenges for researchers within the field. Finally, Prof. Peter Terry will provide an overview of the implications for practitioners. He will focus discussion on some of the many applied uses for mood profiling, identify guidelines for best practice, and critically appraise the use of mood management strategies.

Includes the following 3 addresses:

It's the POMS, it measures mood - doesn't it? by Christopher J. Beedie;

Mood and sport: measurement and theory issues by Andrew M. Lane;

In the mood: mood profiling applications and mood regulation strategies by Peter C. Terry.