Ingrid Ådland

Research focus

My initial PhD study focuses on exploring the neural mechanisms behind perceptions of collective efficacy, often known as team confidence. To achieve this, the study includes the use of electroencephalogram (EEG) and eye gaze monitoring during the observation of team sports events. The goal is to analyse how different brain mechanisms and eye movements contribute to forming these confidence perceptions within a team. A second study will investigate how positive, negative, and neutral bodily expressions affect brain activation patterns and eye gaze behaviour in the context of collective efficacy in team sports.

Studying collective efficacy is important because it affects how well teams perform, work together, and the well-being of those included in the team. Collective efficacy - essentially the shared belief that a team can succeed - boosts motivation, goal setting, and persistence when faced with failures, which leads to better performance results in team sports and organisations. By understanding how efficacy perceptions are formed, psychologists can develop more effective strategies to improve team collaboration and resilience in the future.

Choosing to study at USW

I decided to pursue a PhD because it presented an exciting opportunity and challenge that I was motivated to take on. After completing my degree, I found myself at a point where I felt ready to continue and go into academia, especially in the field of sports psychology. It seemed like the perfect next step to build on what I had already learned and to continue exploring a subject I was interested in. I have spent 20 years as a football player and continue to play today. This long-term involvement has extended my interest in the psychological constructs that are central to team sports, particularly football.

I chose USW because it felt like an exciting new chapter in my life. The idea of exploring a new place in Wales, somewhere I had never been before, added to the appeal. The best part so far has definitely been meeting the incredible and supportive people in the psychology and sports departments at USW. They’re honestly the kind of people you want around you during a degree or PhD or any point in life!

Another highlight has been attending exciting conferences and courses in amazing places like Berlin, Limerick in Ireland, and Bangor in North Wales. These experiences have given me valuable insights that I’ve applied to my own studies. Also winning the national BUCS league with the USW women's football team has been a big highlight for me.