This course focuses on the psychological theories and applied techniques that enhance elite performance. In every performance endeavor, human beings have consistently exceeded our wildest expectations. While this has been significantly affected by the technological advances physical training, an equally, if not more significant part of these advances has been the systematic approach to psychological skills training. This approach makes performance enhancement a reality to all who are seeking to perform to their full potential, regardless of the arena in which they perform. This course reviews the current theories that underlie performance enhancement training techniques and relates them to all areas of elite level performance (academic, physical, athletic, and specific areas of military training.) Topics include the development and maintenance of self-confidence, goal setting, attention and concentration, energy management, cognitive and somatic coping strategies, visualization, leadership, and team cohesion. Students will not only understand the theoretical bases underlying these topics, but apply them, through a series of individual projects, a semester-long group research project, and weekly individual instruction, to personal areas of importance.
