Peter O'Connor (psychologist)

Peter O'Connor is an Australian psychologist known for his research in the areas of sport psychology, specifically on the topics of mood states, overtraining, and performance enhancement. He is a prominent figure in the development and application of psychological strategies to optimize athletic performance and well-being.

O'Connor's work has focused extensively on the relationship between mood and performance in athletes. He has investigated how various mood states, such as anxiety, depression, and anger, can impact athletic performance, and how these mood states can be effectively managed. He is particularly recognized for his research on the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire and its application in identifying athletes at risk of overtraining and burnout.

His research has also examined the physiological and psychological effects of overtraining, contributing to a greater understanding of the syndrome and its prevention. O'Connor's work extends to the development and implementation of interventions aimed at enhancing mental toughness, resilience, and performance under pressure in athletes of various levels. He has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and has presented his research at numerous international conferences.

Beyond his research, O'Connor has also consulted with athletes and teams across a range of sports, applying his expertise to help them achieve their performance goals.