Attitudes Sue Young

Attitudes Definitions An attitude is a state of readiness directed at an attitude object. It may be general or specific, and positive or negative. An attitude object is the focus of an individual’s attitude, which may be an object, an event, an activity, a person or an idea. Attitudes are formed from an individual’s beliefs, influences and experiences.

Attitudes The triadic model Attitudes are made up of three parts: Cognitive — your thoughts, for example you believe in the benefits of exercise Affective — your feelings, for example you enjoy training Behavioural — your actions, for example you train three times a week

Attitudes Forming attitudes Attitudes can be positive… Stress release after competing Role models Enjoyable experiences A belief in your ability Influence of significant others The media Or negative… A bad experience such as an injury Lack of ability Stress in competition Influence of significant others The media

Attitudes Changing attitudes Negative attitudes can be changed to positive attitudes by: Persuasion from a perceived expert Making training fun Allowing early success Using positive reinforcement and rewards Pointing out the benefits of exercise Using role models Cognitive dissonance This resource is part of PE Review, a magazine written for A-level students by subject experts. To subscribe to the full magazine go to