Barriers and facilitators to overcoming mental block in springboard and highboard diving

Mental block can be a significant psychological challenge for many springboard and highboard divers. Consequently, this study investigated the barriers and facilitators to overcoming mental block in these performers. Three former elite divers engaged in reflective interviews to discuss their experiences of mental block. Four barriers (emotions, loss of control, poor coaching and physical sensations) and four facilitators (preparatory skills, team mates, good coaching and cognitive skills) emerged from analysed transcripts. Findings from the current study suggest a link to self-efficacy theory as a potential mediator of mental block in diving.