A systematic review utilising Synthesis without Meta-Analysis (SWiM) to explore the use of imagery interventions in youth sport

Abstract Imagery is one of the most researched and widely implemented psychological skills in sport and extensive research has shown imagery to be an effective technique in enhancing motor performance in that domain. Equally, research has also found imagery to have positive effects on a wide array of performance outcomes, however, the literature concerning imagery and youth athletes is lacking even though imagery has been shown to positively contribute to early experiences in sport. A total of 13 studies (n=504) showed some consistency in study authorship with diversity across participant age groups, sport, location (country), design and analysis, sample size, performance measures and intervention time and technique. Additionally, similarities were also found in imagery assessment and reported outcome success, which has shown imagery as being an effective intervention across certain conditions in sport. As this review was the first in sport psychology to utilise the Synthesis without Meta-Analysis (SWiM; 2020) reporting guideline, limitations existed in presenting a thorough investigation into heterogeneity, as well as an assessment of certainty of findings due to the incomparability of study methods. Results have therefore evidenced the usefulness of imagery in contributing to successful performance outcomes in youth sport, but a greater understanding of how to implement imagery interventions at this level is still needed. With respect to participant age, athletic development and developmental psychology models can play a critical role in further informing interventions with young performers.