An investigation into athletes' intrusive visual imagery

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between athletes'(N=209) intrusive visual imagery and vividness of visual imagery ability. The study also examined athletes' differences in level of intrusive visual imagery according to competitive level (recreational, university, county, and national). A Pearson bivariate correlation indicated participants intrusive visual imagery and vividness of visual imagery ability self-report scores were not significantly correlated (r=.07, p=.32). Competitive level differences amongst participants did not factor in the level of intrusive visual imagery reported. The findings indicated that some athletes experience intrusive visual imagery but there is a requirement to progress research regarding involuntary imagery processes within athletic populations.