Research article summary (published 30 Mar 2007):

The effects of task constraints on visual search behavior and decision-making skill in youth soccer players.

Full Abstract

We examined differences in visual search behaviors and decision-making skill across different microstates of offensive play in soccer using youth participants (13.0-15.8 years) varying in skill and experience. We used realistic film simulations of offensive play, movement-based response measures, and an eye movement registration technique. Playing experience, skill level, and the unique constraints of the task, expressed by the number of players and relative proportion of offensive and defensive players, determined both the observed search behavior and processing requirements imposed on players in dynamic offensive team simulations. Significant differences in performance were observed between players and nonplayers and across three groups of soccer players who differed in skill level. Implications for talent identification and development are considered.

Author information

Author/s: Vaeyens, Roel (R); Lenoir, Matthieu (M); Williams, A Mark (AM); Mazyn, Liesbeth (L); Philippaerts, Renaat M (RM);

Affiliation: Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Gent University, Gent, Belgium.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: Journal of sport & exercise psychology (J Sport Exerc Psychol), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2007-Apr; vol 29 (issue 2) : pp 147-69

Dates: Created 2007/06/14; Completed 2007/07/24;

PMID: 17568064, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Adolescent Adolescent Behavior - psychology Analysis of Variance Attention - physiology Belgium Choice Behavior - physiology Cognition - physiology Decision Making - physiology Eye Movements - physiology Fixation, Ocular - physiology

Fixation, Ocular - physiology Humans Male Motor Skills - physiology Psychomotor Performance - physiology Reaction Time - physiology Soccer - psychology Task Performance and Analysis Videotape Recording Visual Perception - physiology

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