Yielding to internal performance stress? The yips in Golf: A review with a commentary from a player’s perspective

The 'yips' is a debilitating movement disorder which, in golf reportedly affects between 12-28% of players. It does not discriminate between ability levels, and tends to afflict only serious performers. This paper presents a review of the limited research that has examined the yips in golf, and the psychologically based strategies that may be applied by sports psychologists to assist performers in dealing with the condition (e.g. thought suppression; positive imagery; holistic process goals {swing thoughts}; and relaxation). A further aspect of this review is the ongoing commentary (presented within the body of the text) by a highly respected ex-tour professional who is now an international coach. The approach adopted bridges the gap between theory and practice and illuminates the issue from an elite golfer's perspective. We suggest that sport psychologists and coaches need to ensure that a more holistic and empathetic approach is taken when working with performers who are afflicted with the yips.