ABSTRACT
Given the high prevalence of sport injuries in youth sports and the negative consequences of becoming injured it is important to develop strategies for both injury prevention and support during rehabilitation. In this chapter we first review the psychological factors associated with increased risk of sport injuries. Following this, we discuss psychologically based injury prevention strategies and suggest how sport psychology practitioners and coaches may work with young athletes to reduce injury risk. Next, we review literature pertaining to injury rehabilitation in youth sport, particularly drawing on the Integrated Model of Response to Sport Injury. Finally, we conclude by examining strategies to successfully facilitate young athletes’ return to sport.
