The Distinguished International Sport Psychology Award is given in recognition of outstanding and distinguished, long-term, original contributions to the advancement of sport psychology. It is the highest award given by ISSP. Award recipients must have made substantial and original contributions to research through peer-reviewed publications, articles in professional journals, books, and conference presentations, over a significant period of time; and be recognized for their academic and professional leadership in sport psychology at the highest level over a significant period of time. Upon review of this award, it is bestowed upon one longstanding member every four years at the ISSP World Congress provided there is a qualifying recipient.
The Honor Award is presented in recognition of significant contributions to national and international sport psychology through leadership, research, and/or other professional services. Award recipients meet the following criteria: (a) Hold a doctorate degree (or its equivalent) for a least 10 years standing; and/or (b) Have published extensively in recognized sports psychology and sport science journals; and/or (c) Have made a significant contribution in the areas of professional practice over at least a 10 year period; and/or (d) Have provided significant service to national and international professional societies over a period of at least 10 years.
This award has been granted with more frequency than the aforementioned Distinguished International Sport Psychology Award. From 1989 to 2021, 16 members were granted this recognition. Of these people, five members were granted this award during the inaugural launch, with 11 additional members spanning 1993-2021. There are also instances when a four-year cycle does not include an award recipient for this award.
The ISSP Developing Scholar Award is presented to developing sport psychologists in acknowledgment of their contributions to excellence in research and scholarly activity. This award specifically focuses on emerging scholars no more than seven years post-graduation with a doctorate. This recognition is bestowed upon applicants who have made significant contributions to the global field of sport and exercise psychology within this formative period of their careers.
The ISSP Developing Practitioner Award is presented to early career sport and exercise psychology practitioners in acknowledgment of their contributions to excellence in the applied work and promotion of sport and/or exercise psychology.