Character strengths in sport and physical activity

Positive psychological science has established that fostering strengths (e.g. courage, optimism and perseverance) has the potential to buffer against mental illness whilst also actualizing optimal human functioning. In this chapter character strengths are introduced and explored in the contexts of sport and physical activity. The implications of a strength-based approach are discussed in relation to existing empirical research and applied practice considerations for qualified professionals, and those in training, within sport and physical activity settings.