Clasen, Johann Justus (2026) Falling Behind in Bike Racing: Negative Psychological Momentum and the Role of Competitiveness. Bachelor thesis, Psychology.
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Abstract
Psychological momentum (PM) describes shifts in athletes' cognitions, emotions, and motivations during a race. Positive PM (PM+) consists in a feeling of moving toward a goal, whereas negative PM (PM–) elicits a feeling of falling behind and moving away from said goal. Understanding PM can contribute to understanding and optimizing athletes' mental states and performance during competition. Inspired by Vallerand’s antecedents–consequences model, the present study investigated the influence of negative versus positive PM scenarios on cycling performance, as well as the potential moderating role of trait competitiveness. Sixteen participants completed four virtual cycling races in a laboratory setting using a repeated-measures design, where PM conditions were manipulated such that in two races the participants were overtaken and fell behind (PM–), and in two they were the ones overtaking the opponent (PM+). Proximity to the finish line varied, with two shorter and two longer races. Performance was measured as average power output relative to an individual peak power test conducted before the races. Trait competitiveness was assessed using the Revised Competitiveness Index. A repeated-measures ANOVA with competitiveness as a between-subjects predictor revealed no significant main effects of PM condition or competitiveness on power output, nor a significant interaction between these variables. The hypothesized inhibition effect on power output and moderating role of competitiveness were not supported. A small sample size and little variability in competitiveness scores likely contributed to non-significant findings. Follow up studies could further examine temporal dynamics in the development of PM, as well as test these dynamics across a broader range of populations.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Bachelor) |
|---|---|
| Supervisor name: | Otten, S. |
| Degree programme: | Psychology |
| Differentiation route: | None [Bachelor Psychology] |
| Date Deposited: | 12 Feb 2026 12:54 |
| Last Modified: | 12 Feb 2026 12:54 |
| URI: | http://gmwpublic.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/6175 |
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