Negative Psychological Experiences and Saliva Secretory Immunoglobulin A in Field Hockey Players |
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Authors: | Ian M. Taylor James E. Turner Michael Gleeson John Hough |
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Affiliation: | 1. Loughborough UniversityI.M.Taylor@lboro.ac.uk;3. University of Bath;4. Loughborough University;5. University of Bedfordshire |
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Abstract: | Understanding psychological factors that affect immunity in sport might help to reduce infection risk in athletes. The present study examined within-person changes and individual differences in perceived coach control, intentions to drop out, and saliva secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA). Thirty-two field hockey players completed questionnaires and provided saliva samples over a 2-month period. Within-person increases in individuals’ perceptions of psychological control and intentions to drop out were positively associated with SIgA concentration. Individual differences in control or drop-out intentions were not associated with SIgA. Interventions in athletes to prevent immune disturbances and reduce infection should consider these psychological factors. |
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