Relationship between Psychological Capacities and Success in College Athletics

Abstract Three groups of college males, designated as athletes, intermediates, and non-athletes, were given tests designed to measure reaction time, depth perception, and span of apprehension. Analysis of the test data revealed significant differences between the three groups. Athletes were found to be superior to non-athletes in all tests and superior to intermediate athletes in reaction time. The “psychological capacity” scores and certain sports skills scores of varsity athletes were compared. Correlations found were generally low and non-significant.