UWM Professor Uses Sport Psychology Research to Solve Real-World Problems

February 19, 2026 - 04:05

Professor Barbara Meyer possesses a uniquely analytical lens that she applies to nearly every situation. Whether she's guiding Olympic athletes, consulting with a university soccer team, or simply waiting in a grocery checkout line, she instinctively observes and evaluates performance dynamics.

"I’ll be in the checkout line and say to my husband, if the cashier and the bagger set up a system and were planning and communicating together, they could be so much more effective," explained Meyer, a professor of sport and performance psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Her husband, she notes, has learned to simply nod in agreement.

This constant analysis is the driving force behind her work, which focuses on translating rigorous sport psychology research into practical solutions for real-world challenges. Her expertise extends far beyond traditional athletics. Meyer actively works with high-stress professionals, including surgeons, firefighters, and corporate leaders, teaching them mental skills to enhance focus, resilience, and teamwork under pressure.

Her research delves into critical areas such as optimizing recovery from injury, managing performance anxiety, and building cohesive team communication. By studying the mental frameworks of elite performers, Meyer identifies universal principles that can improve efficiency and outcomes in any field requiring precision and composure. She emphasizes that the core skills of sport psychology—goal setting, self-regulation, and strategic planning—are fundamentally human skills, applicable to anyone striving to improve their performance, regardless of the stage or setting. Her approach demonstrates that the mindset of a champion can be cultivated anywhere, from the operating room to the everyday tasks of daily life.