Speaking of Psychology cover image

Speaking of Psychology

The psychology of sports fans, with Daniel Wann, PhD

Apr 24, 2024
Psychologist Daniel Wann discusses the psychology of sports fans, highlighting the mental health benefits of fandom, team selection, fair-weather fans vs. underdog supporters, changing fandom among younger generations, and the potential influence of supportive crowds on game outcomes.
42:06

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Being a sports fan fulfills psychological needs of belongingness and uniqueness, positively impacting mental health.
  • Fans' emotional attachment to teams can lead to coping strategies and influence game outcomes through home field advantage.

Deep dives

Psychological Needs Met Through Sport Fandom

Sport fandom helps individuals fulfill basic psychological needs like belongingness and uniqueness. Being a fan allows for social connection and individual distinctiveness. Studies show that team identification positively impacts psychological health, reducing loneliness and boosting self-esteem.

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