A RELEVÂNCIA DA NEUROPSICOLOGIA NO ESPORTE: FUNÇÕES EXECUTIVAS E SAÚDE CEREBRAL NO DESEMPENHO DOS ATLETAS.
A RELEVÂNCIA DA NEUROPSICOLOGIA NO ESPORTE: FUNÇÕES EXECUTIVAS E SAÚDE CEREBRAL NO DESEMPENHO DOS ATLETAS.
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.982152529048
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Palavras-chave: Neuropsicologia, Funções executivas, Esporte, Concussões cerebrais, Desempenho atlético, Saúde cerebral.
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Keywords: Neuropsychology, Executive functions, Sport, Brain concussions, Athletic performance, Brain health.
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Abstract: Neuropsychology is an area of study and practice of the utmost importance and contribution to various fields of knowledge, especially the sports world. Applied to the world of sport, it has had a significant impact on understanding and improving the performance of athletes, as well as managing their brain health. This area of knowledge investigates how the functioning of the different areas of the brain influences human actions, including motor skills, strategic planning and decision-making, which are crucial factors in the sporting arena. Within this context, two main discussions are highlighted throughout this paper: executive functions and cerebral concussions. Executive functions, which in turn encompass processes such as attention, working memory, inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility, are often assessed to measure athletes' performance in situations of high cognitive demand, so specific knowledge and tests are applied to identify strengths and limitations, allowing for the development of training strategies and personalized interventions. In the case of brain concussions, neuropsychology plays an essential role in the assessment and rehabilitation of athletes. Early diagnosis and analysis of the impact of these injuries on cognitive performance are key to ensuring a safe return to sporting activities. In addition, return-to-play protocols are built on neuropsychological assessments, seeking to balance performance and long-term health. Therefore, here we seek to demonstrate how neuropsychology has become an indispensable ally for sports science, broadening the view of its areas of activity, demonstrating that the physical is not the only main factor to consider in the sports environment, as well as contributing to the development of practices that integrate brain health and athletic performance in an ethical and effective manner.
- Maria Silvia Souza Silva
- Mirele de Jesus da Silva
- Eunaihara Lígia Lira Marques