Sports Perception Psychology-Based Cross-Sport Selection and Talent Cultivation of Minority Traditional Sports: Impacts on Athletes’ Mental Health
Wenjun HuoAbstract
Objective
This study investigates the feasibility of identifying cross-sport talent from traditional sports through sports perception psychology. It aims to construct a corresponding cultivation model that specifically supports athletes' psychological adaptation, safeguards their mental health, and fosters holistic personal development during this critical transition, ensuring their well-being is prioritized alongside athletic retraining.
Subjects and Methods
A mixed-methods approach was employed. Eighty elite athletes from four distinct traditional sports completed validated assessments of perceptual skills and key psychological attributes, including resilience and stress tolerance. In-depth interviews with 20 coaches identified the psychological competencies vital for successful transfer. A cultivation model emphasizing mental health support was developed and evaluated by an expert panel.
Results
Athletes demonstrated superior perceptual attributes relevant to modern sports. Expert consensus (85%) endorsed the psychology-based selection principle. The finalized model emphasizes phased psychological adaptation, dual-skill development, and mentorship. It is designed to actively facilitate healthy identity transition, build mental resilience, and manage the emotional and cognitive load associated with transboundary change, directly addressing core psychological challenges.
Conclusions
The proposed model offers a structured, health-informed pathway that promotes not only competitive success but, more critically, the long-term psychological well-being and holistic development of transitioning athletes. This approach contributes to a more ethical and sustainable national talent development system.
Corresponding Author
Wenjun Huo, Hetao University, Bayannur 015000, China.