Working memory, attentional control, and expertise in sports: A review of current literature and directions for future research.

Abstract

The aim of the present review was to investigate the theoretical framework of working memory as it relates to the control of attention in sport and thereby apply cognitive psychological theory to sports, but also use the sports domain to advance cognitive theory. We first introduce dual-process theories as an overarching framework for attention-related research in sports. Then a central mechanism is highlighted how working memory is involved in the control of attention in sports by reviewing research demonstrating that the activated contents in working memory control the focus of attention. The second part of the paper reviews literature showing that working memory capacity is an important individual difference variable that is predictive of controlling attention in a goal-directed manner and avoiding distraction and interference in sports. Finally, we address the question whether differences in working memory capacity contribute to sport expertise.

Adaptive Working Memory Training Reduces the Negative Impact of Anxiety on Competitive Motor Performance

“…However, it is possible that greater transfer to more generalizable functions and performance outcomes may be possible employing combined WM training, which also includes shifting and updating functions (Koster, Hoorelbeke, Onraedt, Owens, & Derakshan, 2017). In relation to sport, it is likely that the mechanisms involved in the QE rely on the combined processes of these fundamental executive functions, whose interplay determines performance efficiency in sports (Wood, Vine, & Wilson, 2016;Wood & Furley, 2015). Specifically, the ability to maintain a steady gaze for long periods of time under high levels of pressure should not only necessitate good resistance to distraction (i.e., inhibition), but also efficient within-task attentional control (i.e., shifting) and the maintenance of accurate representations of non-fixated targets (i.e., updating).…”

Testing the construct validity of a soccer-specific virtual reality simulator using novice, academy, and professional soccer players

“…This suggests that the VR simulator was not sensitive enough to differentiate expertise differences at this lower level where performance variability is generally higher. Alternatively, this lack of disparity between these lower level players could be influenced by age-related differences between the groups influencing developmental differences in constructs like working memory (Furley and Wood 2016). However, it must be remembered that performance on these drills is only related to outcome and is no reflection on the quality of performance.…”

Utilizing Video-Based Trainings to Improve Decision Making in High School Quarterbacks

“…WM includes tasks that require conscious processing and attention (e.g., selecting a receiver to throw to) rather than automatized tasks (e.g., throwing a football for a skilled quarterback). Yet despite its important role in tactical decision making, there is little research investigating WM in sport and scholars have commented that WM would be a beneficial avenue for sport researchers to study (for further review, see [2,3]). Indeed, empirical research investigating the role of WM in sport has begun to emerge (e.g., [4]).…”