Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
9th ICONST 2025 - Kotor International Conferences on Science and Technology September 3-5, 2025 in Kotor - MONTENEGRO, Kotor, Karadağ, 03 Eylül 2024 - 05 Eylül 2025, ss.60, (Özet Bildiri)
Abstract: This study aims to review the current literature on the role of the interaction between the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the striatum in the reward mechanism within the context of sport psychology. Research published between 2020 and 2025 was examined, and three main themes emerged: motivational processes, performance and decisionmaking, and self-regulation and psychological adaptation. Findings indicate that the striatum processes reward expectations through dopamine, which enhances athletes’ intrinsic motivation, while the prefrontal cortex directs this motivation through strategic decision-making, attention, and selfregulation. Moreover, studies employing neuroimaging methods such as fMRI and EEG reveal that PFC–striatum interaction plays a critical role in athletes’ decision-making under pressure, stress management, and psychological resilience. In conclusion, the functional connectivity between the prefrontal cortex and striatum is considered a key mechanism in sustaining motivation, optimizing performance, and ensuring psychological adaptation in athletes. Future research should further investigate this interaction and integrate findings into sport psychology interventions. Keywords: Prefrontal cortex, Striatum, Reward Mechanism, Sport Psychology, Motivation