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HMS, TIP EQ-Bank 367 MC

A basketball player experiences physical sickness and mental paralysis before important games, causing them to miss easy shots they normally make in practice. Which anxiety management approach would be most appropriate?

  1. Increasing training intensity to build physical confidence
  2. Using progressive muscle relaxation and mental rehearsal techniques
  3. Avoiding high-pressure games until confidence naturally returns
  4. Focusing on technical skill development during practice sessions
Show Answers Only

\(B\)

Show Worked Solution
  • B is correct: The symptoms are signs of competition anxiety. Progressive muscle relaxation reduces the physical tension and sickness, and mental rehearsal builds confidence in pressure situations.

Other options:

  • A is incorrect: Higher training intensity does not address the psychological cause of the problem and may add to fatigue and stress.
  • C is incorrect: Avoiding pressure removes the chance to practise coping strategies, so the anxiety is likely to continue.
  • D is incorrect: The player already makes these shots in practice, so technique is not the problem. The performance drop is caused by anxiety in competition.